Island Smiles Dentistry

02/05/2026

Brushing your toddler’s teeth using toothpaste with fluoride will help prevent tooth decay. Use a dab the size of a grain of rice, and teach them to spit after brushing.

02/03/2026

What’s the difference between metal and white fillings?

Metal fillings — or amalgam fillings — have been used to fill cavities for more than 150 years. They are strong, safe, and last a long time. Some patients are concerned about the mercury content of metal fillings, but scientific studies show they are not harmful to your health.

White fillings are made from a composite material that matches the natural shade of the tooth being repaired. They are a popular choice for patients because they are almost unnoticeable once they are in place. Many patients have questions about the different types of fillings, so please ask to learn more.

02/02/2026

Here's a fun groundhog's day fact! A groundhog's teeth never stop growing. They grow about 1/16 of an inch per week. Groundhogs wear down their teeth through constant usage. This helps to prevent any issues from arising.

01/29/2026

Cold and flu season is here! Following these tips can help lessen their effects on your oral health.

- For colds and coughs that can cause dry mouth, drink lots of water and suck on sugar-free cough drops or candies. Sugary drinks or candies can create the perfect environment for cavity-causing bacteria, but making healthy choices may help you feel better.
- For the stomach flu, rinse with water after vomiting because stomach acids can eat away at tooth enamel. Wait 30 minutes after vomiting before brushing your teeth.
- Stick to a regular brushing and flossing routine while you are sick to help you feel better.

Share these tips with family and friends!

01/27/2026

Ever wondered the difference between a dental bridge and an implant? Dental bridges replace a missing tooth by attaching the bridge to the surrounding teeth using crowns or wings. They are a lower-cost solution and a good option if the patient has experienced bone loss where the tooth is missing. However, bridges cannot prevent further bone loss. They can cause strain on the neighbouring teeth and may need to be replaced periodically.

A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the bone with an abutment and crown attached. The implant integrates with the bone for a stronger, more natural functionality and can prevent bone loss. Because it stands alone, it doesn't cause strain on the neighbouring teeth. A dental implant is also a longer-term solution for missing teeth with many implants lasting a lifetime. However, implants cost more than bridges and sometimes are not covered by insurance.

Deciding between the two options can be tricky, so we offer to review all information with patients and look at any insurance policies to help them make an informed decision. Book a consultation today!

01/26/2026

Due to the current weather conditions and what is expected to continue through the night, our office will delay opening tomorrow until 10am. We want to make sure travel is safe for our patients and staff. Stay Warm!

01/22/2026

Dental sealants offer a thin barrier of protection against cavities. Sealants can be applied to the chewing surface of molars and premolars as soon as the adult teeth come in, and can last for several years.

01/20/2026

Children often have spaces between their baby teeth to allow for larger permanent teeth to grow in and fill in the spaces. Not only are these gaps normal, but they can also make it easier to clean between teeth and allow permanent teeth to grow in straight.

01/19/2026

Due to the current weather conditions, Our office will remain closed for today. A team member will be in touch to reschedule appointments when we are back in the office. Stay Warm!

01/15/2026

Storing a toothbrush out in the open — especially near the toilet — exposes it to airborne germs and bacteria. Instead, store your toothbrush standing up inside a cabinet so that the water can drain in between brushings and it’s a little more protected.

01/13/2026

Sometimes parents wonder when their child is considered ready to brush their teeth without help. While every child is different, we find age 6-9 is usually when a child has the dexterity to brush on their own. Watch this video to find out more.

Young children need help brushing their teeth. Learn what to look for to know when they're ready to do it themselves.

01/08/2026

More than 30% of babies grind their teeth intermittently but it’s nothing to be concerned about. Some experts think that babies grind their teeth when they are teething, have an earache or an allergy, or they might just be testing out their new teeth. However, if grinding becomes a habit and continues into childhood, be sure to let us know.