Family Dentistry

At our office our hygienists strive to meet your needs while valuing your comfort. We adapt our cleaning procedures to make you and your family as comfortable as possible. We encourage you to let us know what is comfortable and pleasant for you. A gentle and enjoyable cleaning experience is our goal.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gingivitis is an infection that affects only the gums. If not treated, it can result in the progression of periodontitis which is a more serious disease of the gum.

All ages are susceptible to gingivitis and 70% of the population is affected by this disease. Gingivitis commonly presents as swollen and/or red gums, gums that bleed easily, gum tenderness, and chronic bad breath.

Regular cleanings and exams with your hygienist and dentist are important in preventing and treating these problems. At your appointment with us, we will let you know the health status of your mouth and the best ways you can take care of your teeth and gums to keep them healthy for a lifetime.

Did you know?

Your mouth and the health of your gums and teeth are linked to the overall health of your body. Research now shows that those with periodontitis are at a higher risk for heart disease and/or stroke as well as diabetes.

There are ways to detect gum disease and the possible effects it can have on your health. Please talk to Dr. Mahara or his team to learn more about these health issues.

Oral Hygiene Instruction and Education

As a part of your cleaning appointment, our hygienists will educate you on the most effective methods of keeping your teeth clean. We may recommend specific homecare products for you to keep your mouth healthy and cavity-free. If you have any questions about products or cleaning techniques, Dr. Mahara and his team are the best people to ask. We stay up to date with new and improved products and techniques to help you stay informed.

We also feel it is important for you to be informed of our findings at each exam and cleaning. We will have a review at each appointment so that you are aware of the health status of your mouth. Read more about proper dental home care and dental tips, including; brushing and flossing techniques, oral irrigation, tongue cleaning, foods for excellent oral health and foods that cause dental health problems.

Read more about what to expect at a dental hygiene appointment at Downtown Nanaimo Dental Group.

Fluoride & Dental Cavities

Dental decay is one of the most common chronic diseases today, thanks in large part to the sugar content in many of the foods that we eat each day. Although anyone can have a problem with tooth decay, children and senior citizens are the two groups at the highest risk.
When the sugars combine with the ever-present bacteria in your mouth over a prolonged period of time, decalcification, the precursor to a cavity, will begin. If left unchecked a visible cavity will develop.

One of the best-proven methods to reverse decalcification and thereby reduce decay, strengthen the tooth structure and decrease sensitivity is with fluoride treatments. At our office, we have different forms of fluoride treatments to make it a painless experience for you.

Fluoride is proven to significantly reduced decay rates in children’s and adult teeth. Although concerns about fluoride exist, a safe level applied topically in the dental office is appropriate for most people to prevent cavities. Discuss any questions with us to learn if fluoride treatments are right for you.

If dental cavities are present, Downtown Dental Group believes in composite fillings based on a number of advantages both in appearance and function. Read more about composite or “white fillings” on our website.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

It is a dental problem that develops in infants that are put to bed with a bottle containing a sweet liquid. The bacteria in the mouth use this sugar to produce acid that destroys the child’s teeth. The first signs of damage are chalky white spots or decalcification across the teeth. As decalcification worsens, a cavity becomes evident.

Oral Cancer

Do you smoke?

• Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer among men. In the United States, over 30,000 new cases are diagnosed annually.
• There are many forms of oral cancer. It can involve the tongue, lips, throat and other parts of the mouth. In all cases, the disease involves an abnormal growth process, which if left untreated, can result in death.
• The number one cause of oral cancer is tobacco, both inhaled and smokeless. Fortunately, if detected early, survival is often assured.
• You need to be examined by a dentist or physician on an annual basis. Dr. Mahara will examine your oral tissues and will determine if you are healthy. Self-examination is good, but not sufficient, especially if you smoke.

Our dentists use the most up-to-date technology available to examine your mouth.

Tooth Extractions

A dental extraction (also referred to as exodontia) is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. The most common reason to have a tooth extracted is due to its destruction beyond the possibility of repair.

If a cavity is treated early, it is possible to prevent tooth loss due to extraction.