COVID-19 (Update)

Dear Friends! (Patients of Drs Sims, Conway and Irwin) We hope you and your loved ones are healthy and doing well. It has definitely been a time of trial and as you know we are excited about being able to get back to the office and see your lovely smiles […]

Pain Relief after Dental Visit

From the Canadian Association of Hospital Dentists, Choosing Wisely Canada and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada: “FIRST TRY acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and/or ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Aleve®, Naprosyn®) taken at regular intervals to manage your pain. Talk to your dentist, surgeon or pharmacist to and the right medications […]

Charcoal Toothpaste: Is it as good as everyone says it is?

Sounds great doesn’t it, I mean Charcoal has other health benefits, so why not on teeth too? Unfortunately, it would seem that none of the claims are true and in fact you may be damaging your teeth… The Canadian Dental Association recently released this in their Monthly Myth Buster Series: […]

I read something about a new product on Facebook that seems too good to be true, is it?

Short Answer: Probably. A good general rule in life is if something seems too good to be true it probably is. We get asked everyday about information that is all over Facebook and other media. It is very dangerous to take these at face value, when often they are posted […]

Can my teeth actually heal themselves?

Short Answer: Yes. But unfortunately the process by which teeth heal or “remineralize” is much more complex. And it does not happen as easily or quickly as a blog post says it does. Teeth are made up of hydroxyapatite, a complex crystal structure that contains a large amount of calcium. […]

Is fluoride really toxic?

Short Answer: Yes. Fluoride is a very potent chemical, That can cause developmental defects, stunt skeletal growth, and was used in World War II by Nazis to make entire populations lethargic, and people put this in our toothpaste and our Water? Yes. With good reason. Back in 1901 Dr. McKay […]

When should fluoride treatment and toothpastes be used?

Water has fluoride at 0.7 mg/L levels. Toothpaste is normally 1-2mg in the .75-1.25ml commonly used when brushing. Toothpaste is normally about 1500 ppm fluoride. Keep toothpaste out of reach of small children! Always remember half a tube of 1500ppm toothpaste could be lethal to a 3 year old. Age 0-2: […]

Are my fillings causing mercury poisoning?

Do my fillings contain mercury?: Yes. Is that Mercury Toxic: No. Can you react to it: There is a very rare possibility of reaction to Amalgam (mercury) fillings. Amalgam (Mercury) Fillings are still considered a standard in Dentistry. They are the best material when the situation does not allow a […]

Why do we take out our wisdom teeth?

There are a number of reasons: Teeth are decayed and you are unable to brush them. They are partially impacted and at high risk of becoming infected. They are fully impacted but may become an issue in the future, and you are currently insured but may not be insured in […]

Is it healthier to use a natural toothpaste or the stuff from the store?

You’ve probably seen a million different Facebook recipes for toothpaste. Ranging from straight peroxide to Lemon juice and baking soda. The thing to remember is what causes decay. Toothpaste has been through rigorous research and study to find formulas that will reduce the chance of decay. The fluoride in them […]

I have great insurance are you able to tell me what is covered?

No, we are not directly connected to the insurance companies, it is always best to call your insurance company and find out what your policy covers. We are not able to discuss this with them on the phone, due to the Personal Health Information Act, they are not allowed to […]

Are x-rays safe?

This is a field that has changed a lot in the last decade. The amount of radiation needed to take standard dental x-rays has gone way down, the film technology is continuing to change allowing us to significantly reduce exposure time. During our lives we are continually picking up background […]

If x-rays are so safe, why do I wear a lead apron, and why does the assistant run out of the room?

Recent studies have showed that the amount of radiation from Dental X-rays are so low that the apron is really not necessary any more, unless the patient is pregnant. However, we don’t know how much radiation you receive on a regular basis. You may live in an area with higher […]

What do I need to know about dentures if i’m getting new ones or have had them for a long time?

What are dentures? Many people around you wear dentures, and most of the time you would never know. They are artificial teeth that can be easily removed and replaced by the wearer. They are the most cost effective way to replace your missing teeth. Will I notice them? Dentures can […]

Frequently Asked Questions

Our answers to some common inquiries.