Fall/Winter 2009

Dr. Phil’s Corner

A warm welcome to all our new patients this past year and a big hello to our existing clientele.

In the next month or two, we will be adding a video clip to our website which will also appear on our “Canpages” advertisement.

Comox Valley Dental Office 

In addition, we will be appearing in the newspapers and airing radio commercials about our services. The aim is to inform the public of the many dental procedures we offer. We routinely do specialized treatments that many local dentists would otherwise refer down island e.g. root canals, implants and surgeries.

You can share the news with your friends, relatives and colleagues (who may not wish to travel so far) that they do not need a referral to see us for these specialized appointments, and it would be our pleasure to care for them as we do for you.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Dr. Phil Nasralla


Fluoride Varnish

You may see some changes when you next come in for your cleaning appointment. We are now using fluoride varnish instead of foam in the trays.

Varnish now goes on clear and provides long-lasting fluoride delivery. No more waiting for 30 minutes afterwards to eat or drink. Varnish sets on contact with saliva and will not be washed away with normal eating or drinking.

Unlike foam fluoride in trays, there is minimal chance of accidental ingestion so no more upset stomachs either. When varnish is applied you will feel a temporary coating on your teeth. This usually lasts 4-6 hours or until you brush your teeth again.

 As always, we will still be offering fluoride rinse for our patients who prefer it.
 

Dentist Comox Valley Vancouver Island BC

Erin, Carmen, Michelle and Joelle at the Pacific Dental Convention.



 Flu and H1N1

With cold and flu season upon us, we would like to let you know that we are being diligent in our office to help control the spread of seasonal influenza and H1N1. In addition to the precautions we already use, we are providing hand sanitizer, located on the front desk in our reception area; please feel free to use it when you come in. We are also regularly disinfecting the reception area and any other common areas. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, we encourage you to contact us ASAP so that we may re-schedule your appointment for when you are feeling better. Out of respect for you, we will do the same.


A Message From Our Hygienist Erin:

LVI Dental Studies 


What mouth rinse is right for you?

Some freshen breath, others provide anti-cavity benefits from fluoride, while others contain germ-killing ingredients to help prevent plaque build up.

  1. Alcohol-yes or no? Alcohol is a component of many mouthwashes and rinses, which can be problematic if a large amount is swallowed. If you want to buy one type for the whole family, and you have school aged children or teens, you may want to choose an alcohol-free rinse. Also for those people who suffer from dry mouth, an alcohol-based rinse can be over-drying.
  2. Sensitivity: Some find the ingredients in mouthwash irritating, especially those with sensitive gums. If you have a sensitive mouth, consider an alcohol-free or natural mouthwash. Natural mouthwashes often contain ingredients such as aloe Vera or chamomile for a soothing effect.
  3. Plaque control: If you want a mouthwash that not only helps control bad breath but also helps to prevent plaque build-up on teeth, look for a dental rinse that contains anti-plaque ingredients.


Do you need a dental irrigator (i.e. Waterpik)?

Dental irrigators do a great job of flushing food and bacteria out from between teeth, under braces and arch wires and especially under and around fixed bridges. They are also helpful in washing away accumulated bacterial toxins in hard to get areas, such as tight teeth, shallower periodontal pockets and around restorations.

Unfortunately they DO NOT remove plaque (bacterial colonies) like floss does because effective flossing literally “wipes” sticky plaque off teeth. However, combining flossing and waterpiking can achieve great results.

If you have dexterity issues or will never floss, you can benefit from waterpiking. And, if you have fixed bridges, you will find that regular Waterpik use will make your breath fresher, your food taste better, your mouth feel cleaner, and your bridgework last longer.