Name: Dr. Tracey Mulhall
Address: Suite #200 - 605 5th Ave SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 3H5
Telephone: (403) 262-4914

With Halloween fast approaching, it promises various treats that will entice your sweet tooth. All too often, downtown dental clinics see how readily available high-sugar treats practically trick patients into indulging more than they should. From these Halloween candy binges, it can eventually lead to cavities if you’re not careful. Enjoy all your favourite treats while keeping your pearly whites healthy this Halloween with these tips from your trusted dentist in downtown Calgary.

Tips From Your Local Downtown Dental Clinic This Halloween

Practice Moderation

Swearing off Halloween candy is not feasible – especially when it comes to children trick-or-treating. The best approach most downtown dental clinics have found is having realistic expectations when having sugary treats. One such way is by practising moderation when it comes to candy. You can do this by refraining from snacking on candy throughout the day. But instead, only have a few pieces during lunch or dinner to satisfy your sugar craving. Furthermore, keep in mind portion size. For example, it’s best to have smaller chocolate bars than huge ones since they will have less sugar.

Be Mindful of Certain Candy

Candy is already not the best for your teeth because of its high sugar content. That said, there are technically certain candies that are worse than others. Unfortunately, certain candies are worse than others. Here are a few sweets you should probably steer clear from:

Sticky or Chewy Candy: You know how annoying it is when some candy gets stuck on your teeth? These types of sweets are the culprits since they’re hard to remove. Avoid candies such as gummy bears, caramels, and taffy that create this issue.
Any Sour Candies: High acidity in anything can harm your tooth enamel by causing it to break down. Since sour candies have high acidity, it would be best to steer clear of them – especially if they’re sour gummies.
Long-Lasting Candies: Many assume hard candies like lollipops are rather harmless. On the contrary, something like a lollipop left in your mouth for a long time can coat your teeth with sugar. Bacteria turn that sugar into acid that can wear away your teeth.

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Everyone knows maintaining proper oral hygiene is expected daily. However, with Halloween candy being so abundant, you need to go above and beyond than before. If you plan to eat any candy, ensure you’re brushing and flossing properly right after. Doing so helps to get rid of any sticky, stubborn candy that’s stuck between your teeth and helps reduce tooth decay. But, if you cannot brush or floss after having candy, you can drink water to help wash away the sugar clinging to your teeth. Drinking water might not seem helpful, but it helps balance out the pH levels in your mouth that sugar makes unbalanced. Bonus tip: if you have sugar-free gum, it can also help. However, you might be asking yourself: how? It all lies in how chewing gum promotes saliva production, which helps wash away acids and bacteria present after eating candy.

Dr. Tracey Mulhall is a dentist in downtown Calgary that can offer dental fillings, crowns, implants, and teeth cleaning. We are always available to help with your dental concerns. Our downtown dental clinic has convenient hours and knowledgeable staff. We want to make your experience at the dentist fast, fun, and friendly. Call us today to book an appointment!

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected]

The cost of a root canal in Alberta is governed by the Alberta Dental Association and College Guides for Dental Fees. In 2021, there are three guides available: the Abbreviated Dental Guide, the Alberta Dental General Dentist Fee Guide and the Alberta Dental Specialist Fee Guide. Information about root canal costs can be found in all three guides, including some of the factors that affect the cost. Join our downtown dental clinic in looking at some of these factors.

Root Canal Cost Factors

Number of Root Canals

Perhaps the most obvious reason to adjust the cost is the number of root canal procedures being performed. If you visit our downtown dental clinic and we find more than one area requiring a root canal, procedures may be required to address each of them. Typically, we will schedule these for separate appointments to reduce your discomfort; unless the treatment areas are close together.

Difficulty of Access

The Dental guide defines difficult access as “limited jaw opening, unfavourable tooth inclination, through complex restorations. E.g. post/ core buildups.” In determining whether or not the root canal is difficult to access, the dentist you visit at our downtown dental clinic will provide additional information. Difficult access can affect the cost.

Additional Considerations

Other factors may increase the cost of a root canal procedure, including calcified canals, exceptional anatomy or the retreatment of a previously completed therapy. Again, these factors should be discussed between you and the dentist you visit at our downtown dental clinic before the procedure occurs.

The Cost of Root Canals

At the end of the day, you can expect the cost of a root canal to vary. The factors mentioned above can influence the overall cost and how much your insurance can cover. In this case, there is no real definitive cost for root canals. Therefore, the best way to get an accurate assessment and price for your root canal is to book a visit with our downtown dental clinic.

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected]

Visiting the dentist is nowhere near the same experience it was in the past. Nowadays, it seems out of place to “fear” going to the dentist, and for good reason. Advancements in this field have made every part of the experience more pleasant, from working with the staff on a plan that works for you to the teeth cleaning itself.

Still, one area that many people are unfamiliar with is the cost of dental check-ups in Calgary. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which is that every downtown dental clinic can set their prices according to the needs of their practice. But, that doesn’t mean it is a rogue operation with no benchmark by which to guide their pricing.

What is the Dental Fee Guide?

The dental fee guide was first introduced just before the turn of the century and was updated for the first time in 2018. This guide breaks down the various operations a dentist is likely to perform and offers pricing suggestions that match the complexity and length of time it takes to complete them. The whole guide is available here.

The Cost of Dental Check-ups

There are various costs associated with dental check-ups at a downtown dental clinic, which change based on the number of adult teeth and other variables. Still, what most people will be looking for is a “permanent dentition”, which is a “complete examination of an adult generally with only adult teeth.” The suggested price for this task is $101.48.

These are usually coupled with periodontal exams and x-rays to give your dentist a complete overview of your oral health. All told, the price suggestions range from $64.24-$101.48 for the common examinations.

Get a Dental Check-up Today

Again, it is important to remember that these prices are suggestions from the Alberta Dental Associate and College, so you will likely find differences between dentists. For best results, come to a downtown dental clinic you can trust!

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected]

We should really give our jaws more credit. For an actuating joint in our body they are remarkably resilient to the problems typically associated with such areas. For example, you are much less likely to see the wear and tear associated with knees or hips in the jaw, and it is much less prone to arthritis symptoms.

Still, as our downtown dental clinic is well aware, jaws are not perfect. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) can cause long-standing pain or discomfort during eating. Overbites and underbites may need the assistance of orthodontics to repair, and, of course, the main subject of our article, Bruxism, chiefly affects the jaw.

However, new treatments are emerging for these problems, including Botox. You can learn more about this below.

The Relationship Between Bruxism, Botox and Your Downtown Dental Clinic

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the medical name for unconscious teeth grinding or clenching while awake or asleep. It can lead to premature deterioration of your teeth, as well as headaches, earaches, facial pain or tenderness and more.

What is Botox?

Botulinum toxin is a naturally-occurring substance that can temporarily paralyze muscle tissue. Until recently, it was mainly used as a cosmetic procedure to reduce the signs of ageing and muscle elasticity in the face. However, it is now emerging as a medical treatment for a variety of health concerns.

How Botox Helps

Injected into the masseter muscle, Botox can temporarily paralyze the area and afford relief to suffering patients. This is proving much more effective than some conventional bruxism treatments. These treatments, which include anti-inflammatory medicine, often cannot effectively address the problem’s source, making Botox a promising alternative.

Get Relief with Our Dental Clinic

Our dental clinic in downtown Calgary can perform Botox treatments for Bruxism and personal aesthetics. To learn more about your options and how we can help, contact us today.

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected]

Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders are painful and frustrating for people living with them. However, new treatments arrive every day to provide better relief and comfort. One of the more exciting treatments is using a well-known beauty product, namely Botox, by downtown dental clinics and other medical professionals.

What is Botox?

Botox, or Botulinum toxin A, is a neurotoxic protein produced by the disease-causing bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. Now, that may sound scary, but it has proven effective in treating a wide range of symptoms and aesthetic concerns in patients. In fact, Health Canada has approved it to fight migraines, among other things.

Typically, people use Botox to shape their smiles, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and relieve the pain from headaches. However, more uses are being discovered every day, including the reduction of sweating in armpits and hands. Plus, the main focus of our article, which is the treatment of TMJ disorders.

How Does Botox Help TMJ?

To begin with, Botox should not be your first solution. Several treatment methods can be effective for TMJ disorders, so ensure you speak with your downtown dental office before seeking this out as a potential choice. However, if you have exhausted your other options and are still looking for relief, Botox has serious potential.

Essentially, when treating TMJ disorders with Botox, the patient is injected in areas linked to the jaw joint, including the muscle groups masseter and temporalis. The Botox relaxes the muscles, reducing pain and also, the range of motion for the jaw. In this study, the method shows a 70% reduction in muscle tenderness for the patients. Still, it effectively reduces jaw tension, headaches and even lockjaw caused by severe stress.

What are the Risks?

The risks of this procedure are very similar to the ordinary risks of Botox. In a clinical setting, with the work done by medical professionals, there is very little chance of error or adverse side effects. However, some patients may encounter a temporary face-drooping, mild bruising, numbness or redness around the injection site.

Additionally, you should check with your healthcare provider before undergoing this treatment. They may or may not cover the procedure, so check with them before electing to go through with the Botox injections.

Where to Find TMJ Relief with Botox

At Dr. Tracey Mulhall, we have the right training, procedures and methods to ensure your Botox treatment is safe and effective. We have experience with the injections for aesthetic and medical purposes, and our clean facilities and friendly staff make the process feel relaxing and comfortable. To learn more, contact us with the information provided below!

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected]

The cost of botox in downtown Calgary is influenced by several factors. Where are the injection sites, how often are the injections necessary, and what is the extent of aging in those areas? These are all important factors to consider when seeking botox injections in Calgary, and we will look at the decisions involved in each today.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Botox in Calgary

Where are the injection sites?

Since botox is a paralytic substance, caution and education should be utilized with discretion to choose the areas receiving the treatment. Nobody wants to appear to have a “frozen face” or asymmetrical drooping so during the initial consultation ask your injectionist’s opinion. They will have experience and knowledge regarding the necessary amount and location of the botox injections.

Depending on your consultation and personal desires, the cost of botox in downtown Calgary can be determined. Horizontal forehead lines average 15-20 units of botox, crow’s feet are approximately 12-18 units, and the space between the eyebrows (glabella) will typically be 15-30 units.

How often are the injections?

Botox is a great way to restore your youthful look, but just like all good things it has to come to an end eventually. Typical botox injections will last about two to three months, but it can be less if the targeted area is subject to deep wrinkles.

As well, lifestyle habits can affect the length of time botox injections are effective for. Not smoking, using sunscreen and limiting your exposure to UV rays, and proper dietary decisions will all influence the health of your skin. The healthier your skin, the more effective botox treatments will be and the longer their effects will last.

Thankfully, though, botox is one of the few things in life that gets better with more use. When engaging in repeated treatments the effects can last longer and over time, the results from a single injection can last up to six months.

What is the Unit Cost of Botox in Calgary?

Now that we have determined some of the important factors to consider when injecting botox, we can again discuss the cost of this service. Botox treatments are measured by the number of units that are required to treat the areas, and the typical cost of a unit in Calgary is $9-$11, and one session will run between $350-$600. The best option to get an exact cost is to see a certified and well-trained professional for a consultation.

Dr. Tracey Mulhall is a dentist in downtown Calgary that can offer dental fillings, crowns, implants, and teeth cleaning. We are well established and always available to help with your dental concerns. Our downtown dental clinic has convenient hours and knowledgeable staff. We want to make your experience at the dentist fast, fun, and friendly. Call us today to book an appointment!

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected]

Winter can be a struggling time for those suffering from sensitive teeth. Many people are left wondering, why it happens, what is the cause behind it, and if there is anything they can do to stop the pain. This guide breaks it all down.

Why Do You Get Sensitive Teeth?

Your teeth are covered by a thin layer of protection, known as enamel. Over time, enamel can wear away, leaving the “core” of your teeth, known as dentin, exposed. The dentin is covered in nerve fibers, meaning it is sensitive to any exposure.

It is why cold weather can be such a struggle. The cold and hot temperatures impact the nerve fibers, making it painful and sensitive. This is the same tooth pain you feel because of cavities and gum disease.

However, there are numerous reasons why people wear down their enamel and suffer from sensitive teeth. The most common causes include:

Brushing too aggressively: You might think that brushing hard is the smart way to pushing off plaque, but brushing with excessive force can start to wear down your enamel.
Clenching & grinding your teeth: Those people that grind or clench their teeth in their sleep can wear away their enamel, leading them to have sensitivity.
Tooth decay: Sensitive teeth are signs that cavities and decay have started to impact your teeth. Make sure you see your dentist in Downtown Calgary for a check-up.
Acidic beverages: The likes of sodas, juices, coffee, tea, and other drinks with a high concentration of acid can erode your teeth and expose the dentin layer.
Bad lifestyle habits: Not brushing regularly, smoking, or drinking too much alcohol can cause your gums to recede, exposing the dentin at the base of your gums. You’ll have to change your habits if you want to improve your dental health.

How Your Dentist In Downtown Calgary Can Help

If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity this winter, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Your dentist can help in many ways, including:

Providing you with toothpaste that is for sensitive teeth. It can help you in the long-term.
Teaching proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as making sure you have soft bristles on your toothbrush.
Covering root surfaces by applying a sealant to fix problems with receding gums.
Making a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth at night. It will help protect your teeth while you sleep.
Applying a fluoride application. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens the enamel and thus prevents sensitivity because of exposed dentin.

Make sure that if you are suffering from sensitive teeth that you visit your dentist in Downtown Calgary for help. They can put you on the path to being pain-free.

Dr. Tracey Mulhall is a dentist in downtown Calgary that can offer dental fillings, crowns, implants and teeth cleaning. We are well established and always available to help with your dental concerns. Our downtown dental clinic has convenient hours and knowledgeable staff. We want to make your experience at the dentist fast, fun, and friendly. Call us today to book an appointment!
Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected].

When people lose a tooth, there are a few options that they can undertake at their Downtown dental clinic in Calgary:

Live without it
Look to get a bridge
Get dentures
Or get a dental implant

While all these of these options are viable (not the first one though), there is no doubting that the final choice is the best.

Compared to other dental options, dental implants are the most expensive choice out there – in Alberta, you can expect to pay anywhere between $5000-$6000 for a single dental implant. But are they are a worthwhile investment? Absolutely. We explain why that is the case:

Four Reasons To Get Dental Implants At your Downtown Dental Clinic

It is a Lifetime Investment

One of the biggest deterrents for individuals and dental implants is the cost. But if you are concerned about your money being wasted, think again.

The materials for the procedure, such as the implant fixture and crown, are of the highest standard, ensuring a lifetime investment. Unlike dental dentures, crowns, or bridges, dental implants last a lifetime. You can see why spending money on it is a worthwhile investment.

Supports Your Teeth, Gums & Mouth

Your teeth are vital to providing support for your entire mouth. Remove a few teeth, and you could unbalance your mouth in the process, as your jawbone and surrounding teeth lose their support. And while dentures and bridges help to provide support, it doesn’t work as well as dental implants.

The implants will provide support and strength to your entire mouth, including your adjacent teeth, your gums and your jawbone. It will also strengthen your bite, reducing pressure on your other teeth, while eating.

Fits Better Than Other Dental Options

When compared to other dental options, you can see why dental implants are so valuable. Dentures can become loose, irritate the gums, and need to be refitted every now and then. Crowns and bridges can break like regular teeth and are purely made for a “surface-level” approach.

Dental implants, on the other hand, are integrated into your existing oral structure, meaning it fits perfectly with the rest of your mouth’s structure. You have to treat them like your regular teeth: floss and brush them twice a day, and visit your dentist in Downtown Calgary for routine check-ups and cleanings. It’s like having your own teeth!

Dental anxiety is an unfortunate condition that stops a lot of people from getting the dental treatment they need. If you’re one of those people, we understand what you’re going through. That’s why we have some ways in which you can cope with it.

Coping With Anxiety – Tips From Your Downtown Dental Clinic

Share your Fears

If you don’t say anything to your dentist, they won’t know if you’re suffering from any anxiety. It is important to be open and share your fears with your dentist in downtown Calgary. Expressing your concerns will ensure the dentist adapt to your situation. At the same time, it will help build trust and communication between the both of you – and that’s the best thing. When you feel informed and in control during your visit, you’re typically less anxious.

Identify what You’re Afraid of

There are many things to be scared of at the dentist – the drills, the needles, the pain. Finding out exactly what scares you can help you manage your anxiety, as you and your dentist can work towards it.

Take Someone with You

Sometimes as supportive and as great as your dentist is, you might need someone by your side, offering additional support. Some patients find it comforting to take a friend or family member with them to keep an eye over them.

What to Expect during Treatment and the Perception of Pain

You might be relieved when you know what to expect during your treatment. Having your dentist in downtown Calgary break down the process to you can be helpful and supportive, as it will calm you down. At the same time, asking them about the type of pain and sensations you might experience can help. Will it be a tingle or feel like a mosquito bite? The more you know, the more you can be prepared for what is to come.

Learn about Mindfulness, Meditation and Breathing techniques

When people panic or are anxious about something, they tend to hold their breath, which decreases oxygen levels and further increases feelings of panic. It is important then to learn mindfulness and specific breathing techniques so you can calm yourself down, especially during dental procedures. Focusing on slow, regular breathing is a great way to reduce anxiety.

Use Hand Signal during Treatment

You will have power when you’re in the seat by way of your hands. Agree with your dentists on specific hand signals so you can communicate with them. It is a great way to empower you and inform them if you need a break.

Distract yourself during the treatment

If the sound of the drill bothers you, prepare for it by bringing some music or a podcast along with you to your Calgary Downtown dental clinic. The music will help distract yourself while your dentist provides you with treatment.

Undertaking the following steps can help you combat your dental anxiety, so you don’t miss out on getting the dental treatment you need.

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected].

Unfortunately, our teeth cannot stay white forever. External and internal factors mean that your discoloration can happen to anyone. But why does it happen? Is it serious? Is there something we can do about it? This blog post has all the information you need to know about teeth discoloration.

The Types Of Tooth Discoloration

Dental experts have identified three main categories of tooth discoloration:

1.Extrinsic Stains:

Perhaps the most common discoloration for people. Extrinsic discoloration is when the enamel of the tooth is stained due from outside particles – mainly food and drinks – that build up and cover the tooth. The pigmented residue of food and drinks ensures that the tooth’s color changes over time. It is most commonly associated with coffee, tea, tobacco, wine, and pop beverages.

2.Intrinsic Stains:

While extrinsic stains are on the outer layer of the teeth, intrinsic stains develop below the surface of the tooth. You can get intrinsic stains by:

Experiencing tooth trauma as a young child, which damaged the tooth.
If you experienced internal bleeding in the tooth when the trauma occurred.
If your mother used an antibiotic (tetracycline) during the second half of your pregnancy.
Or if you used antibiotics when you were eight years and younger.
You have a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta, which causes gray, amber or purple tooth discolorations.

3.Age-Related Stains:

A combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, age-related stains happen as you get older. Your dentin naturally yellows over time, as the enamel around your tooth gets thinner with age, showing your dentin in the process. It is just part of the process as people age.

Should You Be Concerned With Tooth Discoloration?

Very rarely are tooth discoloration an issue. Only when you notice accompanying pain along with the discoloration should you be concerned. In some cases, intrinsic stains can be deep enough that the root of your tooth could be damaged. Speak to your dentist in Downtown Calgary about it to seek treatment.

How A Downtown Dentist Can Help You

If you want to stop your teeth from discoloring, here are a few things you can do:

Reduce the amount of coffee, tea, wine and soda pop that you consume. Over time, you will notice that you teeth will become whiter.
You can also buy whitening toothpaste that can help you whiten your teeth. They will help fade away the stains but not remove them altogether.
For extrinsic stains, you can pay a visit to your Downtown dental clinic for a clean-up. Regular cleanings by a dental hygienist also will help to remove surface stains.
However, for intrinsic stains, if you find that your tooth is being affected with pain, then you will have to consider a root canal to help you reduce the pain.

When it comes to tooth discoloration, there is no reason to panic. If you are concerned, speak to your dentist about what you can do to protect yourself.

Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected].