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Services offered
at the clinic

Checkup-Cleaning and preventive care

Every patient has unique needs. Our team will shepherd you through the process of determining the right course of action tailored to your needs and budget.

Regular root planing

Periodontal disease or periodontitis, better known as gum disease, can affect adults of all ages and nationalities. The good news is it can be stabilized with regular checkups and treatments tailored to you. Root planing is a non-surgical procedure that involves deep cleaning the gums and requires only local anaesthesia. It removes the bacteria-causing plaque and tartar built up above and below the gum line. The treatment helps restore gum health and stop the progression of periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontitis can trigger tooth bone loss, and eventually, losing your teeth altogether. In you have advanced periodontitis, our team will refer you to a periodontist, or gum specialist.

Surgical dentistry

Fillings (cavities):
Filling materials for repairing tooth decay, wear and cracks vary. They each have their upsides and downsides. Our dentists at the Bernard clinic in Outremont will help you sort through the options and find the best solution for restoring your teeth.

Composite fillings

Cavities constitute the most common non-communicable disease in North America.
Composite is a white-coloured aesthetic dental material. Composite fillings are used to repair dental cavities, fractures and cracks. The affected part of the tooth is meticulously replaced with a composite prepared chairside by the dentist. Composite is a durable dental material and fillings can last years.

Composite may also be used for aesthetic applications, including bonding gaps between teeth or making composite veneers.

Composite fillings are completed in a single visit using a local anesthetic. The tooth or teeth in question are filed down and cleaned. A composite is then inserted in the cavity and carefully adjusted and polished to restore the tooth’s functionality and aesthetic appearance.

Tooth sensitivity, especially to cold, is not uncommon after a filling. It is temporary and should be gone after a few weeks.

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings are more commonly known as metal or silver fillings.

Whether or not you are a patient at the clinic, we’re here for you for any dental emergencies.

Extractions

Tooth extractions span different levels of complexity depending on each case. Some are simple, others more surgical in nature. Regardless, you’ll feel totally at ease in the capable hands of our team of dentists.

Simple extractions

A simple extraction is a straightforward procedure that isn’t very intricate. The tooth must be fully visible. It must also be removable in a single piece, and be free of any anomalies in tooth shape and position.

Surgical extractions

A surgical extraction is a procedure requiring a tooth to be completely removed from its socket surgically. Such interventions may become necessary when teeth are impacted, non-restorable due to irreversible tooth decay, abnormally shaped or positioned, all of which involve complex extractions. A postoperative follow-up is scheduled to ensure the healing process is progressing properly and without discomfort.

Gum graft surgery

The purpose of gum grafting is to correct a gum condition, generally by harvesting tissue from your palate and moving it to the affected area. The gum graft is stitched into place. Grafting techniques vary based on the nature of the gum condition and the desired outcome. Our team will examine you and determine which grafting procedure is right for you.

Free gingival graft (FGG): This type of grafting is used to increase keratinized tissue, most commonly for patients with thin, weak gums. It is sometimes paired with an orthodontic treatment to stabilize the gum prior to tooth movement.

Connective tissue graft (CTG): This type of grafting is used to cover the root in order to stop the gum from receding, or “dropping.” It is mostly intended for patients whose receding gums are causing issues such as sensitive teeth, food impaction or a compromised aesthetic appearance.

Root canals

This procedure is used for teeth whose pulp (nerve) has become infected, inflamed or necrotized and needs to be removed. A root canal is generally required when the pulp, the part inside a tooth that harbours nerves and blood vessels, is damaged due to a deep cavity, a fractured or bruised tooth.

The procedure requires one or two visits, depending on the situation.

The main steps of a root canal are:

- Diagnosis

First, the dentist examines and takes x-rays of the affected tooth to assess the need for a root canal. Symptoms such as pain, swelling or sensitivity may indicate an infected or inflamed pulp.

- Local anaesthesia

Before beginning treatment, the dentist numbs the area in and around the tooth. This is to ensure you feel no pain and are totally at ease.

- Dental dam

A piece of vinyl, commonly referred to as a dental dam, is placed to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and dry during treatment.

- Clearing out the pulp

A hole is drilled in the tooth’s crown to get to the pulp. The dentist then uses special dental instruments to delicately remove the infected or damaged pulp, after which, the tooth’s chamber is cleaned and disinfected.

- Filling the canals

After cleaning, the root canals are temporarily sealed with a dental filling to prevent recontamination.

- Restoring the tooth

The final step is restoring the tooth in order to permanently seal access to the canals. This may involve placing a crown to reinforce the tooth’s structure and restore its function.

A dental crown is a cap that restores the shape, function and aesthetic appearance of a severely damaged or decayed tooth or even a root-canal-treated tooth. The main steps of a dental crown procedure are:

Initial consultation

During this first visit, the dentist examines the damaged tooth, takes x-rays to evaluate the extent of the damage, and goes over the treatment options with you, which may include a dental crown. This initial consultation is usually conducted during your regular cleaning-checkup, or during the comprehensive exam if you are a new patient.

Preparing the tooth

A prerequisite before crowning, this normally involves filing down the tooth to make space for the new crown. The tooth sometimes needs rebuilding prior to filing to create a solid foundation for the crown.

Dental impressions

Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist takes impressions of the tooth and those neighbouring it. The impressions are used to create your custom crown.

Choosing the colour and shape

You and your dentist pick the colour and shape of the crown together to ensure a natural match and seamless smile.

Temporary crown

A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

Making your crown

The impressions are sent to a dental lab that will custom-make your crown as per the dentist’s specifications.

Try-in and adjustments

Once the crown is ready, it’s time for your try-in. Your dentist checks the crown’s fit, shape, colour and appearance. Adjustments are made if required.

Bonding the crown

Once you are satisfied with the look and comfort of your crown, the dentist permanently secures the crown onto the prepared tooth using a dental cement and provides you with aftercare instructions on how to maintain your crown.
Dental crowns offer a durable solution for restoring damaged teeth, your bite (chewing function), your smile, and preventing future damage. Following your dentist’s recommendations is essential to prolonging the life of your crown and fostering proper oral health.

(fixed bridge, Maryland or “butterfly” bridge, implant-supported crowns, partial and full dentures)

There are many important reasons why you should replace missing teeth, for both your oral and overall health. Here are some of the key reasons:

Chewing effectively

Teeth are essential for chewing effectively. Missing teeth can make eating certain foods difficult, which in turn, can compromise nutrition and digestion.

Maintaining tooth alignment

Neighbouring teeth will shift to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. This could lead to tooth alignment issues, tooth migration and malocclusion.

Preserving bone structure

A missing tooth can cause the underlying jawbone to gradually lose density. This could result in bone atrophy, which can affect the stability of your jaw and face shape.

Preventing gum issues

Bacteria can settle into the gaps left by missing teeth, which can promote gum issues such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Dental appearance

Missing teeth can influence the aesthetic appearance of your smile and face. This can impact your self-confidence and quality of life.

Speech and pronunciation

Teeth are instrumental to producing speech sounds. Missing teeth can affect pronunciation and spoken clarity.

Protecting adjacent teeth

Missing teeth can cause the load distribution to shift to the adjacent teeth, rendering them more susceptible to wear and problems.

Treatment options

There are many ways of replacing missing teeth, including implants, bridges and dentures. Replacing missing teeth provides an opportunity to restore chewing function and aesthetic appearance.

It is imperative that you consult a dental health professional about your tooth replacement options, as these vary based on individual situations. An appropriate treatment may contribute to preventing long-term complications and maintaining good oral health.

Fixed bridge

A fixed bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis designed to replace one or several missing teeth. It extends across the toothless gap and is held in place by the healthy teeth on either side. The prosthesis helps restore chewing function, preserve tooth alignment and improve the appearance of your smile.

Here is how a typical dental bridge works:

- Abutments (teeth on either side of the gap)

The teeth adjacent to the gap left by the missing tooth (teeth) are filed down and prepared for crowning.

- Crowns

Dental crowns are custom-made to cap the prepared teeth. These crowns are used to anchor the bridge.

- Pontics (replacement teeth filling the gap)

Pontics are the artificial teeth that bridge the gap left by the missing tooth (teeth). They are anchored to the crowns on either side.

- Bonding

The dental bridge is permanently cemented into place onto the abutment teeth. Once in place, the bridge remains affixed inside the mouth and you will not be able to remove it.

The benefits of a dental bridge include getting your chewing function back, preserving the alignment of your teeth, improving the appearance of your teeth and smile, and the fact that it constitutes a fixed solution.

It should be noted, however, that preparing the adjacent teeth will require removing part of their natural structure. Also, you will need to keep the teeth and gums supporting your bridge healthy through rigorous oral hygiene. Talking to a professional from the Bernard dental clinic will help determine whether a dental bridge is the right missing teeth replacement solution for you.

Maryland bridge

A Maryland bridge, aka a butterfly bridge, is a treatment option typically used to replace missing front teeth. It is less invasive and less costly than a traditional bridge. The Maryland bridge comprises a pontic, i.e. the tooth filling the toothless gap, and wings, often metal, that your dentist will bond to the back of the neighbouring teeth. You will not need to remove this bridge from your mouth to clean it. Your dentist will go over the hygiene and maintenance measures with you.

Implant-supported crowns

These crowns are generally reserved for patients missing only one tooth, and like the name suggests, they rest on dental implants. Implants are titanium screwlike posts surgically inserted into the jawbone. They act as artificial roots to support the crown. A crown attached to an implant simulates the look and function of a natural tooth.

Here is how an implant-supported crown procedure typically unfolds:

Implant placement

The dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. A healing period is required to allow the implant to tightly fuse with the jawbone (known as osseointegration). This can last a few months.

Crown placement

Once the implant is thoroughly integrated into the jawbone, dental impressions are taken to create an exact mold that will be used to custom-make a crown that fits perfectly and seamlessly. The crown is then attached to the implant. Crowns are made of durable and aesthetic materials to imitate the appearance of a natural tooth.

The many benefits of implanted-supported crowns include stability, functionality and aesthetic appearance. They are designed to look and function like natural teeth, and unlike other dental replacement options such as bridges, they do not require anchoring onto neighbouring teeth.

Always consult a dental health professional to ascertain whether an implant-supported crown is the right option for your situation.

Partial dentures

A partial denture is a removable dental prosthesis designed to replace one or more missing teeth while preserving the remaining teeth. Unlike full dentures, used to replace all of your teeth, partial dentures are specifically intended for gaps created by missing teeth.

Here is how getting partial dentures generally works:

- Base

The base of a partial denture is typically metal. The base will adapt to the shape of your mouth and rest on gum tissue, and in certain cases, on existing structures like natural teeth.

- Artificial teeth

Artificial teeth are affixed to the base to replace the missing teeth.

- Attachments

Attachments, e.g. metal clasps, are used to grip the partial denture to your own teeth.

The benefits of partial dentures include:

- Aesthetic appearance

Artificial teeth are designed to replicate the look of natural teeth as much as possible, and ultimately, improve your smile’s appearance.

- Chewing function

Partial dentures restore chewing function and enable you to eat more comfortably.

- Preserve remaining teeth

By filling in for missing teeth, partial dentures can help prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting and maintain tooth alignment.

- Less expensive option

Partial dentures may prove a more economical solution compared to other more complex alternatives such as dental implants or bridges.
You should know, however, that it may take some time to get used to partial dentures, and that good oral hygiene is crucial to keeping your remaining teeth and gum tissue healthy. Your dentist may recommend partial dentures after a thorough evaluation of your oral health. This treatment option requires multiple visits.

Full dentures

Full dentures constitute a multistep process involving designing, making and adjusting a removable dental prosthesis tasked with replacing all of your teeth on the upper and/or lower jaw.

Here are the main steps of getting full dentures:

- Initial consultation

This first visit spans a comprehensive oral exam, x-rays, and a conversation with your dentist about your needs and goals. It is also an opportunity to discuss the various treatment options available.

- Taking impressions

Impressions are taken to create an exact mold of your jaw.

- Choosing the teeth’s colour and shape

Together, you and your dentist pick the colour and shape of the artificial teeth that will make up the denture. You want them to look natural and aesthetic.

- Making the dentures

The impressions and supporting information are sent to a lab that will custom-make your dentures.

- Try-in and adjustments

Once your dentures are ready, it’s time for your try-in. Your dentist checks the fit, shape, colour and aesthetic appearance of the dentures. Adjustments may be required to ensure optimal comfort.

- Instructions and maintenance tips

Your dentist will provide instructions on how to insert, remove and maintain your full dentures. This may include daily cleaning tips, overnight storage, and other oral hygiene advice.

- Follow-ups

Follow-up appointments are scheduled to resolve any potential issues you might be experiencing, make adjustments if necessary, and also monitor your overall oral health.
It is important you be aware that adapting to full dentures may take some time. It might feel a little awkward at first, but most patients eventually get used to their dentures and start chewing normally again. Following up regularly with your dentist is essential to ensuring your full dentures are always properly adjusted and will last a long time.

Mouth guards

Athletes regularly use mouth guards to protect their teeth and mouth, whether they play a contact sport or practice any physical activity liable to impact the mouth, e.g. football, hockey, rugby, basketball, etc.

Mouth guards made by dentists provide a more accurate fit and offer better protection than store-bought mouth guards. Custom mouth guards are especially important for contact sports, because they provide a level of protection specifically adapted to your dental anatomy.

Take-home whitening trays

Following your annual or semi-annual dental checkup, the team at the Bernard dental clinic will take impressions of your teeth to be used for making custom mouth trays that will allow you to safely apply the whitening solution at home. When the trays are ready, we make sure they fit properly, then send you home with your kit. A follow-up appointment is scheduled so we can track the results. We then either continue with the treatment or stop it once satisfied with the outcome.

Teeth whitened at home using our trays will remain white a long time. And you can always reuse the trays for touch-ups in the years that follow.

You need to pay attention to certain foods when whitening your teeth at home, such as black coffee, beets, turmeric and red wine. You should also avoid smoking.

In-office whitening

Our chairside whitening process begins with taking impressions of your teeth for the purpose of making custom mouth trays. Chairside whitening is usually followed by some at-home whitening for longer-lasting results. Chairside whitening is ideal if you need fast results, have a major event and wish to look your best quickly.

Dental veneers

Dental veneers are fine-porcelain or composite shells fitted over the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance. They serve to correct a variety of aesthetic imperfections, such as stained, chipped, misaligned or gapped teeth. They may also be used to alter a tooth’s shape or size.

The dental veneer placement process is generally as follows:

- Initial consultation and planning

The dentist begins by examining the overall condition of your teeth and inquiring about the aesthetic outcome you’re hoping for. The dentist then assesses whether you are a suitable candidate for veneers. If the treatment is deemed appropriate for you, you and the dentist jointly map out what comes next. You discuss veneer types (porcelain or composite), colour, shape, and the number of alterations required to arrive at the desired result.

- Preparing the teeth

Before placement, the dentist will often remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth to free up space so the veneers fit properly.

- Taking impressions

Precise impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a special lab, where they will make your veneers as per your dentist’s specifications.

- Try-in and adjustments

Once your veneers are ready, it’s time for your try-in. Your dentist checks the fit, shape, colour and aesthetic appearance of the veneers.

- Bonding the veneers

Once you are satisfied with the appearance of your veneers, they are cemented to your prepared teeth using dental bonding agents.
Veneers are an aesthetic solution to improving your smile while concealing dental imperfections. It will be essential that you follow up with your dentist regularly to help foster the long-term health of your veneers and teeth’s condition.

Night guards

Night guards are intraoral devices that protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding or clenching. They can be designed for either the upper or lower dental arches, depending on your dental anatomy. Their purpose is to prevent your upper and lower teeth from coming into contact.

Night guards are carefully adjusted so they are well-balanced to allow your jaw muscles to relax. Night guards do not prevent grinding and clenching, but they will protect your teeth.

The scientific term for involuntarily grinding or clenching your teeth is “bruxism.” It can affect both adults and children, although we do not make night guards for young children. Signs and symptoms include aching teeth or jaw pain (especially in the morning or at breakfast time), headaches, earaches, sensitive teeth, chipped or cracked teeth, worn teeth.

Pediatric dentistry

At the Bernard dental clinic, we treat kids as soon as possible. We repair cavities with composite or amalgam fillings, depending on the parents’ preference, and we also make stainless steel crowns if a situation warrants it.

We specialize in space maintainers for children who prematurely lose a baby tooth, to keep the space for the adult tooth so it may erupt unhindered.

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