Smiling is one of the most contagious and powerful things in the world. It is a universal language that needs no translation or explanation. Smiling is not only an expression of joy, happiness, and excitement, but it also has many health benefits. In this blog post, Dr. Mark Cloth at the team at Dentistry on Sheppard will discuss how smiling affects overall health and why it's essential to smile more often.

1. Smiling helps reduce stress levels.
   When we're feeling stressed, our body releases cortisol, which is a hormone that increases blood sugar levels and suppresses the immune system. Smiling can help reduce the levels of cortisol in your body, which, in turn, reduces stress levels. Smiling also releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers that help us feel good and reduce stress.
2. Smiling is good for our mental health.
   It's been found that people who smile more often tend to have lower levels of depression and anxiety. Smiling sends signals to our brain, which triggers the release of dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins – all of which help us feel happy and content. Smiling can also help improve our mood, even if we don't feel like it at the time.
3. Smiling can improve our relationships.
   When we smile, it makes us appear more friendly and approachable. People are naturally drawn to those who smile, and they tend to be more willing to strike up a conversation or help when needed. Smiling also helps us communicate better with others by making us more open and receptive to what they're saying.
4. Smiling has physical health benefits.
   Studies have found that smiling can help lower blood pressure, which is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Smiling also helps boost the immune system by increasing white blood cell count, which helps fight off illness and infection.

Our team at Dentistry on Sheppard takes a proactive approach toward helping each patient achieve and maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. Smiling is more than just an expression of happiness – it has numerous health benefits as well. It reduces stress, improves mental health, and has physical health benefits – all of which contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Our dental practice is conveniently located in the heart of North York at Sheppard Ave, just East from Yonge Street. Our practice takes a holistic approach to dentistry and always welcomes new patients and emergencies.

What studies are telling us and how we can take strides to protect our health

While the science is not absolute, there is evidence linking poor oral health to a whole host of possible and serious health issues such as dementia, diabetes, respiratory infections, cancer, and yes, cardiovascular disease. In fact, while taking into consideration multiple risk factors, experts believe that those who show signs of periodontal disease are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease.

"here are multiple studies showing that those with cardiovascular disease also show evidence of poor oral health and in some cases periodontal disease,” says Dr. Mark Cloth, Owner of Dentistry on Sheppard located at the corner of Yonge and Sheppard in North York. “A recent study by the University of Toronto found a direct link to oral hygiene and secondary health challenges. While we must consider all environmental and health factors, we do know that inflammation and bacteria, both common elements that lead to periodontal disease, are also key factors in heart health."

What can we conclude from the research and what should it mean to us?

• Perhaps people who are more attentive to their dental health tend to place higher priority on their overall health.
• Gum disease leads to inflammation, and we know that inflammation in the body leads to a whole host of possible complications, cardiovascular disease being one
• The bacteria in your mouth can spread to other parts of your body through your blood stream. If bacteria reaches the heart, it can result in illnesses such as endocarditis (inflection of the inner lining of the heart), atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and stroke.

Take Precautions and Understand the Signs of Gum Disease

While much is still unknown about the connection between dental and oral health it has long been proven that your oral health is an important indicator of overall health. Regular brushing and flossing are good habits to maintain. However, if in the pursuit of good oral habits, you see any of these signs, we urge you to contact Dr. Mark Cloth and the team at Dentistry on Sheppard to discuss further:

• Your gums tend to bleed when you eat, brush or floss.
• Your gums are irritated - red, swollen, and sore to the touch
• You notice a gap between your gums and your teeth, or it feels as if you are teeth are loose and pulling away from your gums
• You suffer from halitosis (bad breath) mouth.

Being proactive might not just protect your dental health, but your heart health as well. So, show your teeth and mouth the love they deserve – your dental team at Yonge and Sheppard will do the same.

When most people think of ozone, they think of the layer above the earth that protects our planet from the sun. But did you know that ozone is actually a natural part of the environment made up of three oxygen molecules that has many purposes here on earth?

Ozone is a powerful disinfectant that is often used to purify air and water to make it safer for humans to consume. Ozone is also used as part of holistic dentistry to disinfect the mouth and eliminate many bacterias, including those that cause gingivitis, advanced periodontitis, and tooth decay.

What is Ozone Dental Therapy?

Sometimes the best therapies and treatments can be found in nature.

Dentists that practice with a holistic approach often use pure ozone, ozonated water, or ozonated oil to kill bacteria and microorganisms in the mouth to prevent gum disease and treat minor tooth decay.

Why Ozone Dental Therapy?

There are many reasons that dentists choose ozone therapy as part of their holistic dentistry practice.

Here are some of these reasons:

1. Unlike some dental procedures and medications, ozone dental therapy is painless, non-invasive, and free of side effects. Ozone therapy requires no cutting, no drilling, and no anaesthesia or medications. This makes ozone dental therapy a very appealing option for those who are nervous or anxious about their dental visits.
2. Ozone Dental Therapy requires no numbing agents or other substances that could have potentially-harmful side effects.
3. When used as an antimicrobial agent, ozone is 1.5 times more effective at eliminating harmful bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses than other commonly-used disinfectant substances like chlorine.
4. Ozone can stimulate blood flow and naturally trigger an immune response, encouraging the body’s natural abilities to heal itself and bring itself back to optimum health. By flushing the area below the gumline with ozonated water or gas, both the gums and supporting tissues are stimulated with additional blood flow which results in faster and more complete healing, without the need for pharmaceutical interventions.

How does it work?

If your family dentist in North York determines there are areas of the mouth that require cleaning, they will administer a blast of ozone to the area to eliminate the bacteria or microorganisms that are causing the problem.

Are you curious about ozone dental therapy and want to learn more? Are you looking for a dentist that takes a holistic approach to preventative dental care and treatment? If so, call the team at Dentistry on Sheppard. We’ll set up a time to meet with you, Dr. Mark Cloth will assess your current condition, and set you on a path towards a lifetime of good oral health.

Cavities are no fun.

Some people are just unlucky and are born with weaker teeth with thinner enamel, both of which can increase the chances of developing a cavity. But did you know that in many cases, cavities can be prevented?

Keep reading to learn how.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a permanent hole or opening in a tooth. When a person has a cavity, they likely feel pain and discomfort because the nerve inside the tooth is no longer protected by the tooth enamel and is now exposed to the elements.

How do cavities form?

Teeth are covered by a hard material called enamel, which protects the softer internal layers of the tooth from exposure to food, drinks, and the elements. When plaque builds up on the tooth, it releases acids that begin to break down the enamel. If the plaque deposit is left on the surface of the tooth for too long, eventually these acids will erode the enamel enough to cause an opening or hole. This is a cavity.

How do I prevent cavities?

Great question! The best way to prevent cavities is to avoid plaque buildup on your teeth, and if you do have plaque buildup, to have it removed as soon as possible.

Here’s how to accomplish that:

1. Eat healthy, nutritious foods that are low in sugar and acids. When left on your teeth, sugar and acids erode enamel and cause cavities. By avoiding consumption of foods and drinks that are high in sugar and acid, you can reduce the likelihood of developing cavities.
2. Drink plenty of water. Nobody is perfect and most of us indulge in sugary foods and beverages every now and then. When you do, be sure to drink plenty of water to help rinse away these damaging materials from your teeth.
3. Brush and floss regularly. A thorough, consistent oral healthcare routine that includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily will help you remove the plaque-causing materials from your teeth before they have time to cause damage.
4. Visit your dentist regularly. Your regular dental visits give your dentist and hygienist the chance to identify plaque deposits and remove them before too much damage occurs.

If you are experiencing dental pain and are concerned you may have a cavity, or if you’re overdue for a dental checkup, call our team at Dentistry on Sheppard in North York to schedule an appointment today. Our office is conveniently located on Sheppard Ave, just East from Yonge Street. Ample, free parking is available at our building. New patients and emergencies are always welcome. Dr. Mark Cloth would be thrilled to look after your smile.