Nail biting, clinically known as onychophagia, is often dismissed as a simple stress habit. However, clinical guidance and scientific research confirm that persistent nail biting can lead to measurable consequences for teeth, gums and jaw function. During routine appointments at our dental office, our dentists and dental team frequently identify early signs of mechanical wear associated with this behaviour, particularly when patients are unaware that the habit may be affecti

March Break, a time eagerly awaited by children and parents alike, is often filled with excitement, relaxation, and the opportunity to create lasting memories. Amidst the flurry of planning activities and outings, March Break presents an ideal opportunity to prioritize your child's oral health by booking their routine dental visit. Let's delve into why taking advantage of March Break for a dental check-up is a wise decision for your child's health.   It's fast and it's worth

Discover how women are shaping the future of dental care through leadership, innovation and compassionate practice that improves patient experience and outcomes.

Welcome to By The Lake Dental’s comprehensive blog series exploring the intricate relationship between childhood sugar consumption and its lifelong implications, including oral health issues. In this series, our children’s dentists embark on a journey through the historical roots, multifaceted determinants, health impacts, and practical strategies to combat excessive sugar intake among children. Welcome to By The Lake Dental’s comprehensive blog series exploring the intricate

Welcome to By The Lake Dental’s comprehensive blog series exploring the intricate relationship between childhood sugar consumption and its lifelong implications, including oral health issues. In this series, our children’s dentists embark on a journey through the historical roots, multifaceted determinants, health impacts, and practical strategies to combat excessive sugar intake among children. Sugar consumption has far-reaching implications for both oral and overall health,

Discover how our dental clinic empowers families to curb childhood sugar habits, offering practical guidance to protect young teeth and support lifelong oral health.

Welcome to By The Lake Dental’s comprehensive blog series exploring the intricate relationship between childhood sugar consumption and its lifelong implications, including oral health issues. In this series, our children’s dentists embark on a journey through the historical roots, multifaceted determinants, health impacts, and practical strategies to combat excessive sugar intake among children. Sugar - it's not just a sweet treat; it's a complex web of biological, sociocultu

Cold weather often brings more than just lower temperatures; it also marks the peak season for colds, flu and respiratory infections. While most people focus on managing fever, congestion and fatigue, few consider the effects that illness can have on their mouth. At By The Lake Dental, we help patients understand how to protect their oral health during winter illnesses. Fever and dehydration are common symptoms of cold and flu. Both can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia), reducin

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reset routines, prioritise your health, and make space for habits that truly matter. At By The Lake Dental, we encourage our patients to start 2026 by focusing on one of the most overlooked aspects of overall well-being: oral health. After a busy holiday season filled with sweets, late nights, and irregular routines, it’s common to fall behind on brushing, flossing, or even postponing dental visits. The good news? January off

Tooth decay in young children is more than just a cavity; it’s a growing public health concern. Some studies from KFL&A Public Health show that in some communities, over 40% of children in senior kindergarten have experienced tooth decay . But many parents still believe that baby teeth don’t matter. At By The Lake Dental, we want families to know: early prevention makes all the difference.   Our kids' dentists and dental team recommend booking your child’s first dental visit

A successful dental visit starts long before you arrive at the dental office. At By The Lake Dental, our dentists and dental team help patients of all ages feel confident, comfortable and prepared, whether it is a routine hygiene visit or a dental treatment. Here are practical steps to make your next visit smooth and productive. For Adults Start by listing any symptoms, concerns or questions you may have. Tooth sensitivity, jaw discomfort or changes in gum appearance should

A bright, healthy smile is a universal symbol of confidence and well-being. However, achieving and maintaining oral health requires more than just daily brushing and flossing. Regular hygiene visits to By The Lake Dental play a crucial role in preserving your pearly whites and preventing potential dental issues. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of planning your dental visits throughout the year and how it can positively impact your overall health. Preventio

Many adults and seniors understand that losing a tooth affects their smile, but the change beneath the gums is often a surprise. The disappearance of a tooth initiates a process of bone atrophy that can impact the entire facial structure. At our dental offices in Ajax and Scarborough, our dentists and dental team prioritize educating patients on the long-term consequences of tooth loss and the importance of timely intervention. Understanding the Jawbone’s Dependency The jawb

As the holidays approach, many people begin preparing for travel, family gatherings and end-of-year celebrations. But in the rush to finalise plans, dental care is often pushed aside. At By The Lake Dental, we encourage patients to prioritise their oral health before the holidays to avoid unexpected problems during the most festive time of the year. Dental issues such as early cavities, gum inflammation, cracked fillings or sensitivity may not show obvious symptoms at first b

Celebrate the holidays joyfully with loved ones, thoughtful gifts, and delicious desserts. However, our dentists and dental team highlight that it's important to be mindful of the impact excessive sugar can have on your family's oral health . Fortunately, there are numerous healthier alternatives and recipe substitutions for holiday treats. Consider replacing sugar with applesauce, incorporating nuts and dried fruits into cakes and cookies. These steps can significantly reduc

Accidents happen, and for children, dental trauma is unfortunately common especially during play, sports or falls. At By The Lake Dental, we know how distressing it can be for parents when a child knocks out a tooth. Acting quickly and correctly can make a significant difference in your child’s oral health and future smile.   The first step is to stay calm and identify whether the tooth is a baby tooth or a permanent one. If it’s a baby tooth, do not try to reinsert it, as th

Most people know that walking is good for the heart and mind, but what many don’t realise is that regular physical activity also benefits your oral health. According to new research, taking around 7,000 steps a day may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and help support a healthier mouth in the process. The Lancet Public Health recently published a large-scale review led by Professor Melody Ding at the University of Sydney , showing that 7,000 steps per day significantly low

This year marks an important achievement for By The Lake Dental  as we celebrate 15 years of excellence in dental care , patient trust, and community engagement across Ajax and Scarborough. Since opening our doors, our commitment has remained steadfast: to provide high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive dental care in an environment where every patient feels respected, understood, and valued.   A Journey Built on Care and Commitment From our earliest days, By The Lake

💖  This Holiday Season, Let’s Make Kindness Our Tradition.   For many families across Durham Region and Scarborough, this time of year will be one of the most difficult in many years; Together, we can change that, one can, one box, one small act of generosity at a time.   BRING A CAN, SHARE A SMILE! When you visit By The Lake Dental, (or even if you’re just passing by), we invite you to drop off a non-perishable food item.   With less than the cost of a toonie , you can help

Pregnancy brings significant changes to a woman’s body, and that includes her mouth. Hormonal shifts during this period can affect the gums, teeth and overall oral health. At By The Lake Dental, we support women through each stage of life, including one of the most transformative: motherhood.   According to the Oral Health Foundation, up to 70 percent of pregnant women experience pregnancy gingivitis , a condition marked by gum inflammation and bleeding. Increased hormone lev