October 11, 2024
You may have noticed we've been discussing x-rays more frequently! This is because we are committed to providing the most up-to-date, evidence-based care. Previously, our policy was to take Panorex x-rays every 10 years. However, new guidelines now recommend taking one every 5 years, starting when patients are between the ages of 7 and 9.
The reason for this change is that Panorex imaging helps us detect potential health issues early. Conditions like calcifications or plaques in the carotid artery, jaw lesions or tumors, and dental issues like tooth resorption or hidden infections often show no symptoms, but they can be identified through these x-rays. Early detection means we can address problems before they become serious.
At your next hygiene appointment, we’ll let you know if you’re due for a Panorex or other dental x-rays.
Welcome back, Christina! We’re thrilled to have our fantastic hygienist back on the team after her exciting travel adventures! Our patients missed her and are excited to be able to book appointments with her again. Not only will they receive top-notch teeth cleaning, but they’ll also get to hear all about her amazing travels!
We are excited to welcome Jane, our incredible Office Manager, to the Okanagan Dentistry team. Jane brings a wealth of experience in dental office management, alongside a passion for patient care and smooth office operations. Her focus on creating a welcoming, efficient environment will help us continue to deliver the highest quality care and make a difference in the lives of our patients.
Please join us in giving Jane a warm welcome! We are excited about the positive impact she will bring to our team and community.
We always need to be thinking about the risk-benefit of dental procedure. “We would rather do nothing at all than do the wrong thing”. Fortunately, the technology of dental radiographs has progressed so much that the radiation received from a single x-ray is slightly above what you would get from eating a banana! The benefit of a dental x-ray far outweighs the risk of the radiation dosage. However, we are always going to try and minimize these radiographs while properly assessing your dental and oral health.
Frenectomies can be a simple but important procedure for maintaining oral health. A frenectomy involves removing or altering a frenulum—a small fold of tissue that can restrict movement, often under the tongue or upper and lower lip.
When these tissues are too tight, they can cause certain oral conditions such as gingival recession or spacing between the teeth. By addressing these concerns early with a frenectomy, patients can improve function and prevent more serious oral health issues down the road. If you think you or your child may benefit from a frenectomy, talk to us at your next appointment! We take an evidence based approach to treating all oral conditions, and this is no exception.
We have some bittersweet news to share—our wonderful dental hygienist, Olivia, will be moving to a new city and, sadly, saying goodbye to Okanagan Dentistry. Olivia has been an integral part of our team for the past 7 years, providing exceptional care and bright smiles for all our patients. While we’re sad to see her go, we wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter of her life. She’ll be greatly missed by both her colleagues and patients!
Have a wonderful fall, we look forward to seeing your beautiful smiles soon!