Andrea Galick
Andrea Galick is an accomplished Dental Hygienist (RDH) with a passion for helping patients achieve optimal oral health. Andrea has built a reputation as a caring and skilled practitioner who puts her patients at ease and provides individualized care that meets their unique needs.
Latest Posts
How Often Should I Be Having a Dental Cleaning?
If you’re asking “How often should I be having a dental cleaning?”, the evidence‑based answer starts with a core principle of preventive dentistry: professional cleanings are essential for maintaining long‑term oral health. While the traditional guideline of twice‑yearly cleanings remains widely recommended, the ideal schedule is tailored to your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and lifestyle. This article breaks down the latest recommendations, research insights, and expert dental practice guidance to help you determine the right cleaning schedule for your smile.
Key Takeaways
- Most adults ...
White Fillings vs. Amalgam Fillings: Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
When it comes to restoring your smile, choosing the right dental filling is essential. White composite fillings offer a natural, aesthetic solution that blends seamlessly with your teeth, while amalgam fillings provide a durable, cost-effective option with a long history of use. At Skymark Smile Centre, we help you navigate the pros and cons of each type to ensure you make the best decision for your oral health. Whether you're concerned about aesthetics, safety, or durability, understanding the differences between these fillings will help you choose the most suitable ...
Bruxism Explained: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Dentist
Key Takeaways
- Bruxism is a condition characterized by involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, often occurring without the individual’s awareness.
- It exists in two primary forms: sleep bruxism (at night) and awake bruxism (during the day), each with different underlying causes.
- If left untreated, bruxism can lead to severe oral health complications, including enamel erosion, tooth fractures, gum recession, and TMJ disorders.
- Recognizing the signs early and seeking dental advice can help prevent long-term damage.
- Data from authoritative sources, such as the Canadian Dental Association and the Sleep ...
Does Dental Insurance cover Porcelain Veneers in Canada?
Key Takeaways
- Porcelain veneers are classified as cosmetic treatments by most insurance companies, meaning they are not typically covered.
- The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) excludes cosmetic procedures, such as veneers, from its coverage.
- Location, dentist expertise, material choice, and clinic type are significant factors in determining final veneer costs.
- Expert input from Canadian dentists confirms that cosmetic veneers are an elective procedure, not deemed medically necessary.
How much do dental veneers cost in Canada on average?
Pricing for dental veneers in Canada varies widely. Depending on the province, clinic ...
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted and Need Removal
Key Takeaways
- Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and even bad breath.
- Wisdom tooth pain feels different than a cavity or TMJ disorder — usually involving deeper pressure and radiating discomfort.
- Removal is recommended when pain persists or leads to complications such as infection, cysts, or nerve involvement.
- Early diagnosis can help prevent serious dental and facial issues.
What are the most common signs of impacted wisdom teeth?
You're brushing, flossing, and doing everything right — but suddenly, there's an ache in the back of ...
5 Key Questions People Ask About All on Four Dental Implants
If you’ve ever heard of “Teeth in a Day” and wondered what makes it so transformative, you’re not alone. Known clinically as All on Four dental implants, this innovative procedure gives patients a permanent, stable, and natural-looking set of teeth — all in one day.
Whether you’re tired of the limitations of dentures or researching long-term alternatives, understanding this treatment can help you make the right choice for your smile. Below, we answer the five most common questions about All on Four dental implants, with insights from ...
What are Some Signs That a Dental Clinic is Right For You?
Finding the right dental clinic in Mississauga can make all the difference in your oral health and long-term comfort. Whether you’ve recently moved, changed insurance providers, or simply want better care, choosing the right dentist is not just about convenience — it’s about trust, consistency, and quality of care.
According to Dr. Goli Ariafar, DDS, “A great dental clinic isn’t just defined by advanced technology. It’s the environment, the communication, and the genuine commitment to patient comfort that truly set it apart.”
In this guide, our ...
How to Prevent Cavities: Tips from Dental Professionals
Key Takeaways
- Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and release acids that erode enamel.
- Preventing cavities requires a combination of daily oral hygiene, professional cleanings, and smart diet choices.
- Dental sealants and fluoride treatments offer additional protection, especially for children and high-risk adults.
- Regular checkups allow your dentist to detect early decay before it turns into a serious problem.
- Prevention is more affordable and less painful than restorative treatment.
Understanding Cavities: The Basics
Cavities, or dental caries, are permanent damage areas in the hard surface of ...
Does Canadian Dental Insurance Cover Implants and Invisalign?
Key Takeaways
- The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) provides partial to full coverage for basic dental care services to eligible residents.
- Coverage varies depending on income level and the services required; cosmetic procedures, such as whitening, are excluded.
- Invisalign may be partially covered under private or provincial insurance, especially if deemed medically necessary.
- Dental implants are typically classified as cosmetic, but may be considered medically necessary in cases of trauma or medical conditions.
- Expert opinions from Canadian dentists help clarify areas of uncertainty in insurance coverage.
What does the Canadian ...
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive? Causes, Symptoms & What You Can Do
Key Takeaways
- Tooth sensitivity is a sign, not just a nuisance. It often indicates enamel erosion, gum recession, or underlying dental issues like cavities or infections.
- Enamel and gum health are key. Loss of enamel and exposed roots are the most common causes of sensitivity, and both are preventable with proper oral hygiene.
- Cold sensitivity is usually manageable. If your teeth react to cold but not heat, the cause is likely minor and reversible, though persistent symptoms still warrant a dental check-up.
- One sensitive tooth = localized problem. A single tooth ...