The dentists at Granville Station Dental share details about the family dental services they offer to patients of all ages (seniors, adults, teens, and kids) in Vancouver and how the services can differ as you age.
How will dental services change as I age?
Kids
Regular dental care is essential for children, to help them set a solid foundation for lifelong oral health. We provide a comprehensive range of dental services for children at Granville Station Dental.
Starting with their first visit (ideally at six months of age) all through their school-aged years, we work with them to keep their smile healthy. We provide regular cleanings and exams, and review proper preventive hygiene techniques at each appointment to ensure their teeth receive appropriate care at home.
For children at a higher risk than average of tooth decay, or for those that have special circumstances or needs, restorative dental services or customized treatment plans may be recommended.
Teens
As teenagers grow to become independent the dental care they require will grow as well. They will still require preventative care but approximately every 9 months.
Lots of teens are uneasy about the way they look and worry about having a white and healthy smile so our team will teach them about the link between good oral hygiene and the appearance of their smile.
If a teen requires orthodontic care we may refer them to an orthodontist for assessment, they might also need an orthodontic treatment such as braces, clear aligners, a retainer, or other appliances.
Adults
Many people develop early-stage gum disease in adulthood, potentially leading to painfully swollen gums and other oral health problems. Preventive care should still be a priority for adults, including at-home care and regular visits to the dentists for hygiene cleanings.
Many people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed in early adulthood. Sometimes, oral surgery, specialized care, appliances, or other treatments will be recommended to help treat specific issues such as TMJ Disorder or sleep apnea.
If you require restorative services such as crowns, bridges, or fillings, we will be happy to offer them to you and address any questions and concerns you might have.
Seniors
As you get older, your mouth and teeth will naturally change, and you might have new medication needs. This could increase your risk for developing dental health problems, such as:
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Dry mouth (caused by medications)
- Gum disease or periodontitis
- Need for tooth replacements or dentures
- Oral cancer
You might find that your teeth are becoming less sensitive to things like pain from cavities or hot or cold temperatures. This is because the nerves in your teeth can shrink as you age. Conversely, if gum tissue recedes this can make your teeth more sensitive as root tissue is left exposed.
Buildup of plaque and wear on your tooth enamel can also leave you susceptible to other problems. A dentist can examine your smile and help address these by recommending appropriate treatments such as dental implants, restorative services, a gum graft, gum therapy or oral surgery.