Category Archive for ‘General Dentistry’

Tooth Implant

Five Reasons to Get Dental Implants

There are several treatment options for a missing or damaged tooth or teeth, like veneers and crowns. However, dental implants provide a number of benefits that make for a better long-term investment overall.  Here are some great reasons why you should consider dental implants if you need to replace a damaged or missing tooth.
  1. Get permanent results Other alternatives, such as dentures or crowns, will deteriorate and even break. Because dental implants are anchored directly to the jawbone, proving greater stability and they can last an entire lifetime as long as you provide them with proper care.
  2. Prevent getting deeper oral health problems Missing teeth can create opportunities for your teeth to shift and these new spaces become a breeding ground for bacteria and cause tooth decay and gum disease. Dental implants eliminate such gaps and hold the surrounding teeth in place. This means you can keep your jaw from shifting and potentially changing your jaw shape.
  3. More effective oral function Implants hold in place very firmly and this is because they actually fuse to your bone over time, just like as if they are real teeth. The stability provides better functionality than other alternative because you won’t have to worry about changes in speech or an appliance falling out.
  4. Get back your natural smile An implant can give you back your natural smile without sacrificing the aesthetic quality of your smile. They can also match the color of the implant to the specific color of your teeth, giving you a more natural smile. This allows them to blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
  5. A more convenient option Dental implants provide a more permanent solution so you can care for them like your natural teeth. Healthy oral healthy hygiene habits like regular brushing and flossing after meals to remove lingering food particles can let your implants last a lifetime and lessen your daily worries.
If you live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA give Golden Smiles Dental a call and any one can help you with any questions about dental implants. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to schedule an appointment today.
teeth whitening

What you need to know about Dental Implants

Many patients face the decision of whether or not to get a dental implant with a certain amount of fear or confusion.  What exactly does that procedure entail?  What might you expect?  This article will discuss some of the basics about dental implants.  If you are left with more questions after the article, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call to speak with a dentist who can answer your questions. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to set up an appointment today. The truth about dental implants is that they provide you with much more than a great smile. They can play an integral role in maintaining your oral health. When a tooth is missing, due to decay or loss, dental implants preserve facial structure and prevent the jaw bone from deteriorating. After the loss of a tooth, adjacent teeth can shift and create a gap that becomes a potential breeding ground for bacteria, leading to more infection. Another option to consider is the cost. While the procedure is usually more expensive than a bridge or a crown, however the results are permanent and do not require much maintenance. The implants are anchored directly into the jaw bone, creating a strong foundation for the artificial teeth.  This means that the implant will not require additional maintenance or replacement. Other factors to consider is that the fear surrounding getting an implant is the biggest obstacle for many. Really, the procedure is a simple one, with the dentist using an anesthetic during the procedure and most patients feel little to no discomfort. Most patients can use over-the counter medications to manage pain following the procedure. This means that dental implants are not as painful as you might expect. A winning smile may be worth the pain. If a dental implant sounds like a good fit to you, call Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA at (909) 481-8990 a call to speak with a dentist who can answer your questions.
Crowns & Bridges

How does Pregnancy affect your Oral Health?

Pregnancy comes with a whole host of changes to a woman’s body, ranging from hormonal changes to physical ones. Unlike the obvious changes, like the development of a baby bump, pregnancy can cause changes to your body that may go unnoticed. Some of those changes can have a dramatic impact on your oral health. Hormonal changes in the body can have a direct impact on its normal behavior. This is why it is important for women to take excellent care of their teeth while pregnant. The hormonal changes increase the risk of developing gum disease because it makes your gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop, and that can have a big impact on the health of the unborn baby. It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience pregnancy gingivitis, which can be identified by swelling, bleeding, redness or softness of the gum tissue. Periodontal disease, a more advanced oral health condition can also affect the health of your baby. Research has shown that an expectant mother who suffers from periodontal disease may deliver a premature, low birth weight baby. These mothers are actually seven times more likely to have a baby that is born earlier and smaller than the usual baby, which increases the risk of future health problems and disabilities. There is hope, however, if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease and you are pregnant, our expert dentists will recommend a very common, non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planning. This simple procedure cleans the root of the teeth and the teeth themselves to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins. This can reduce the risk of having a premature or low weight birth. Additionally, this can reduce many of the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis. Follow these tips for optimal oral health during pregnancy:
  • Avoid sweets, as sweets provide a excellent food source for harmful bacteria.
  • As a precaution, avoid dental treatments during the first trimester and the second half of the third trimester. Let your dentist know you are pregnant.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your baby’s teeth develop in the third month of pregnancy, so you want to be sure to be eating plenty of good nutrients to feed the growing baby.
  • Pay special attention to your gums, and if you see any changes call your dentist at Golden Smiles Dental (909) 481-8990 right away.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene, brushing at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day.
  • Try a softer toothbrush if you cannot stand brushing your teeth due to morning sickness.
Finally, never skip routine dental checkups, as these are vital to keeping track of your dental health. Taking care of yourself is the beginning of good health for your baby. Call Golden Smiles Dental today to schedule your appointment: (909) 481-8990.
Wisdom Teeth

When should I get my Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Many young adults go through a routine procedure to get their wisdom teeth removed, with an estimated 10 million wisdom teeth removed from 5 million people a year. Sometimes, though, surgery is not necessary. You can trust Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA to be able to provide you with the expertise and the care to help you decide if getting your wisdom teeth removed is the next best step for you and your oral care.

What makes Wisdom Teeth Wise?

Wisdom teeth are your third and final set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens and early twenties. If they can be properly aligned and healthy, these teeth can be a valuable addition to your mouth. However, it is more common for these teeth to not be aligned, and this can have disastrous effects for the rest of your mouth. They can come in horizontally, angled inward or outward, or tilted toward or away from your second molars. Any misalignment can cause crowding and even damage to adjacent teeth, your jawbone, or your nerves. Additionally, there stems another potential issue from when the wisdom teeth come in impacted or enclosed within the jawbone or the soft tissue in a way that only partially breaks through the gum line. This partial eruption creates a perfect venue for infectious bacteria to enter your teeth and grow, causing an infection. Because these partially-erupted teeth are hard to reach and hard to clean, they become the perfect avenue for future tooth decay to take hold.

Why should you get your wisdom teeth removed?

Dentists will make the decision to remove wisdom teeth when they begin to impact teeth around them, causing problems, or when an X-ray shows that there may be problems down the line. They will also consider other factors, such as age, position of the teeth, and shape of your mouth to project any potential issues. Many dentists will remove teeth that appear healthy now but may pose a threat to your oral health in the future. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to remove a tooth. Despite current pain, consult with your dentist to see if removing your wisdom teeth is the right move for you. Other symptoms that could indicate the need to remove your wisdom teeth include:
  • Damage to the jaw. Cysts can form around the new wisdom teeth, and if left untreated for too long, can cause damage to the surrounding nerves and hollow out your jaw.
  • Inflammation of the Gums. The gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth can become sensitive and swell, which can to pain and a more difficult mouth to clean.
  • Sinus issues. Sinus pain, pressure and congestion can all arise as a result of the inflammation in the gums.
  • The real danger of unremoved wisdom teeth. The swelling caused by inflammation can create pockets in which bacteria can hide and create cavities.
Regular check ups can keep you one step ahead of tooth decay, and your dentist will be able to tell you if you need wisdom teeth removed. Make sure you keep to your schedule of routine check ups. Call (909) 481-8990 today to arrange your appointment at Golden Smiles Dental, in Rancho Cucamonga.
Flossing Teeth

Five Reasons Why Flossing is Fundamental

Flossing may have a bad reputation, but its benefits are numerous and its role in your oral health is key. Simply brushing your teeth leaves two sides completely untouched, but flossing allows you to reach those sides and keep plaque build up from happening in some of the hardest to reach places.

Flossing Keeps Plaque Out

Flossing is the best way to prevent plaque build-up from happening between your teeth. Plaque is a kind of residue created by bacteria in your mouth after they consume bits of food and drink that are left behind after you eat. It is a soft film that builds up on your teeth, that is home to many harmful bacteria. The plaque will eventually harden into tartar if left to sit on the teeth. Plaque can be removed by daily brushing and flossing but if it is left to harden into tartar it can only be removed by a dental professional, costing you time and money and a trip to the dentist’s office. The plaque is especially harmful as it is acidic and will eat away at the surface of your teeth, causing cavities to form. When left untreated for a long period of time, the cavities can worsen, resulting in major tooth pain and may even necessitate the tooth be removed!

Flossing Covers Where Your Toothbrush Can’t

Toothbrushes are fantastic at removing plaque from three of the five sides of your tooth, the front, back, and chewing surface. That leaves two surfaces that are yet to be cleaned – this is where floss comes in. Flossing should become a major part of your daily routine. Flossing often seems tedious and time-consuming, but with tools like a dental floss holder or even a dental pick, the process becomes incredibly easy. You no longer have to figure out how much dental floss or dental tape to use, just pick up and go! These tools allow you to simply begin flossing, going through your entire mouth start to finish without worrying about the floss slipping or how to get in weird angles.

Not flossing can cost you big time

If you leave the plaque hidden between your teeth it is only a matter of time before it sinks below the gums. Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that creates inflammation and redness in your gums right around the teeth. Gingivitis, thankfully, is easily prevented simply by maintaining good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day, and floss daily. This can help you prevent, and with your dentist‘s help, maybe even reverse gingivitis. When left untreated, gingivitis evolves into a more serious form of gum disease: periodontal disease. This disease is often referred to as gum disease. It causes the inner layer of the gums and bone to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These small pockets can get small bits of food stuck in them, and become infected with bacteria. The bacteria and the toxins the bacteria produce can enter your bloodstream causing all kinds of havoc throughout your body. It can also destabilize the jaw bone and you can actually lose a tooth all because of not flossing! According to the ADA (American Dental Association), gingivitis and periodontal disease are the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Flossing each day will not only save you your teeth but save you money too!

Flossing helps you look younger!

Gum disease and the associated bone loss and potential tooth loss associated with it, will change how your face is shaped and give you an older appearance. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy will give you a youthful smile and face shape. Floss at least once a day and you will not only look younger but you will be able to keep your smile for a long time. Flossing should be a fundamental part of your daily routine. The benefits of flossing once a day are well worth the few minutes it takes to clean your teeth. Flossing helps you fight against plaque build up and keeps your teeth and mouth healthy and happy. For more information or for tips on how to floss, speak with your dentist at your next visit and they will be happy to show you proper flossing and brushing technique.

Why choose a dental implant over a bridge?

The decision of what to do when looking to replace a tooth often comes down to wondering what the difference is between a bridge and an implant. Your dentist will be your best resource in determining a good option for you, but replacing the tooth is the best option for your long term oral health. Implants have a reputation of being costly, but they offer a decades-long solution to a missing tooth and are as close as you can get to getting your natural tooth back. Bridges are sometimes cheaper, but they often are a lower quality option.

As if it was never gone!

A dental implant replaces the missing tooth in both form and function. A small metal post is set into the jaw bone, and a crown, generally made of porcelain, is fitted on top of the post. The jaw bone will actually grow around the post, anchoring it securely in your jaw as a natural tooth. The porcelain crown is colored to match your natural tooth color and retains the same durability and strength as a natural tooth. Unlike bridges, there is no slippage or squeaks, and there is no risk of jaw decay, as the jaw bone grows around the implant. In order to be fit for a bridge, you actually have to lose a portion of the healthy teeth surrounding the gap. Then the bridge is fitted over the gap, which is simply covered up by the bridge. Bridges work for people whose jaw is not strong enough or thick enough to carry an implant, but a dental implant gives the best and most reliable option. The implant procedure is generally done over a few sessions, starting with a consultation. The jaw is prepared to accept the implant and may require a bone graft if the jaw is not strong enough or not thick enough. Then, the metal post is placed in the jaw. After the sometimes months-long healing process, the crown is placed and the implant is done!

An investment in your health

The process to get an implant can sometimes take months of healing, however, you get decades or a lifetime of use from the implant. Bridges often must be replaced as the teeth around the gap shift, causing gaps to form. With the implant, however, you retain your natural smile and never have to worry about it again. You aren’t just investing in your smile but in your ability to speak clearly and eat without undue trouble. The health of your mouth is demonstrative of the health of your body. The better you can keep your oral health, the healthier you are overall and the less susceptible you are to getting a number of mouth and gum diseases.

You keep your smile

A dental bridge can be a good option for some, but you do not fill the gap left and your remaining teeth will shift position over time. This can dramatically change your smile and even the appearance of your face. A dental implant prevents that from ever happening. The titanium post will root into the jaw, just like the roots of your natural teeth. This preserves your jaw bone and prevents any jaw loss or decay. Implants offer a great option for both replacing a missing tooth and keeping your natural smile. They allow you to keep your natural bite, and you can feel secure that you are able to live your life just like before when you had your natural tooth.
Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns: Zirconia vs PFM (Porcelain)

Sometimes it starts with an innocent bite of hard candy, or perhaps a mouth injury, or just plain old tooth decay, but it always seems to come down to one thing: needing a crown to protect the tooth. Many face this decision every day and must choose from a lot of options. When you need a dental crown, you often discover you have more options than you expected. Often the differences between the options can be quite confusing, or hard to understand. Today there are a number of options available for people looking for a crown. Gone are the days where you could choose between a metal crown and a low-durability porcelain one. You no longer have to sacrifice aesthetic and beauty considerations for durability and strength. If you’re like the average patient today, you want to preserve your natural smile, and traditional porcelains may be too expensive to consider. Zirconia dental crowns offer a cheaper alternative that looks great and lasts for a long time.

What is a PFM Dental Crown?

PFM dental crowns, which is short for porcelain-fused-to-metal, are a type of crown that has a metal base which covers the remainder of the tooth. Then there are added layers of porcelain which are attached to the metal base. PFM dental crowns often leave a metal ring at the bottom of the crown that is quite noticeable, even to lay people. This metal ring is can become exposed when the gums recede. Additionally, The porcelain used can degrade over time, which can give the tooth a dull color inconsistent with the other natural teeth. Aesthetics is a big thing to consider when getting a crown on your teeth. PFM crowns rarely fully deliver in aesthetics. They are generally used for when a crown needs to withstand a lot of pressure or tension that often comes with chewing. Porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations have been used for over 50 years. They have been proven to last a long time, but the porcelain covering may fail, causing the breakage of a large piece of ceramic from the metal substructure. The entire crown may need replacement if the break is too large. Many dentists trust PFM crowns due to their proven track record, however, zirconia-based crowns are becoming more and more popular among patients.

Why choose a Zirconia Dental Crown?

A zirconia crown is the best answer to the problems presented when getting a crown for your back teeth, which do the majority of the chewing. They offer incredible strength and delightfully beautiful aesthetic, often even at a fraction of the cost. Zirconia is a much more durable material than even the metals used in conventional PFM crowns. This eliminates the worry about the crown becoming worn out or breaking over time. There are also other health considerations: the alloys and metals that are present in PFM crowns may cause an allergic reaction in some patients. According to dentaleconomics.com, the metals in the alloys used by PFM crowns can “result in gum tissue that is purplish in appearance, and some patients experience irritation and/or gingival recession”. Zirconia, however, is an extremely safe alternative material, as zirconia works well with the natural chemistry present in your mouth. Tissue in the mouth doesn’t pull away from the zirconia crown, and the gums often appear healthy and pink. Teeth with a PFM crown look somewhat dull in appearance, unlike zirconia and other ceramics. PFM crowns often require more of the healthy tooth to be removed for the crown to have adhered, but because zirconia crowns are so strong, a thinner dental crown can be used. A thinner dental crown means less tooth removal.

What is Zirconia, and why is it better?

Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is very hard and very durable. It is made up of zirconium oxide, and a stabilizer that gives it its strength. It is the hardest known ceramic in the industry and is one of the newer and better ceramics being used. The process of getting a Zirconia crown generally takes only one visit, compared to the multiple visits other porcelains require. In the first visit, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth. Next, a ‘core’ made of zirconia is then milled while in a soft state. Then, it is hardened in a furnace where it shrinks in size and reaches its highest durability. Zirconia is among the most durable material available to dentists, and this means it will last a very long time and endure the stress of chewing easily without breaking or fracturing. Then, the core is often layered with a more natural looking tooth tissue-like porcelain before being cemented in place by the dentist. Finally, any adjustments needed can easily be adjusted by the dentist on the same day as the impressions were taken, with a final cementing taking place once the dentist is sure the fit is perfect for the patient. And, because most dental offices can scan, mill, and cement the implant all in-house, they often charge a lower price for a zirconia dental crown than for other types of porcelain that would take multiple days at a separate lab to process. Another great benefit of zirconia dental crowns is that it can all be done in one session. Zirconia does not allow as much light to pass through it as other porcelains do. However, it still makes a great option for back teeth. Most dentists tend to prefer to use alternate porcelains for front teeth. As more developments continue in the creation of quality zirconia, the overall aesthetic appearance will improve, and can quite possibly be making aesthetics a non-issue. Zirconia gives the benefit of a natural looking smile, with the great combination of a long-lasting material to help prevent further damage to the tooth.

How do I care for Zirconia dental crowns?

Zirconia dental crowns are cared for much like normal teeth. They requiring brushing at least twice a day, as well as flossing at least once a day. Use a toothpaste containing fluoride and a soft-bristle brush. Brush in short strokes, being sure to cover every tooth surface, the chewing surface, the front, and back. Also, brush your tongue to help prevent bad breath.
Dental Implants Illustration

Why choose a Dental Implant?

It is not uncommon for a patient to require a replacement for a missing tooth. Whether through an accident, or a tooth that had to be pulled, the average American will require at least one replacement tooth in their lifetime. That said, there are so many options to choose from when it comes to a good replacement for your teeth. With so many options, it can be quite confusing to decide which works best for you. Getting the tooth replaced can make the difference between restoring or even improving your natural smile to suffering from overcrowding, bone loss and a greater risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This article will cover some of the options you can consider when talking to your dentist.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into either jaw. A replacement tooth, generally made out of porcelain or zirconium, is affixed to the post. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, several missing teeth or even whole jaw dentures. The titania post functions a lot like a natural tooth’s root, anchoring the tooth in place and keeping your natural smile intact. Implants have a number of advantages over other kinds of replacement options. They are the most similar to your natural teeth, with no slippage, or chattering. The titanium post, which is body safe and has no negative effects on your mouth’s tissues, actually encourages the bone to grow around it. This means that there is no change to your jaw or face shape, like with other forms of replacements. There are generally three steps for treatment. First, the implant is placed in the jawbone. Some patients may experience some swelling and tenderness in the area affected, so your dentist may prescribe pain medication. A diet of soft foods is often recommended post-surgery. Second, the area must be left to heal on its own. This process takes time, but it means that your implant will last far longer than any alternative. The healing varies from person to person, and it is because of this process that it is recommended that only people in good health and have adequate bone to support the implant receive them. Finally, the custom-made replacement is made in a laboratory, and on another visit the dentist will fit the replacement on the implant posts. Because these custom replacements can take some time to make, you may receive a temporary replacement while you wait for the new one to be made. In the end, dental implants can last years, or even decades, and are the best option for replacing teeth. No adjacent teeth are damaged, and it helps prevent bone loss. There are a number of cheaper options that often don’t last as long, or are more uncomfortable than implants. Often these require replacements or to damage neighboring teeth. Let’s explore these other options.

Removable Dentures

A removable denture is a type of denture that can be easily taken out of the mouth, so it can be cleaned. There are two types of dentures: Partial ones only replace a small number of teeth, while full dentures can often replace a whole set of teeth. Dentures generally feature the replacement teeth attached to a plastic base, matching the color of the gums. This plastic often covers a metal framework that gives the denture its structure. The denture may also come with a metal clasp that is used to affix the denture to the teeth. Many dentures may feel tight or awkward at first, but over time and use, most patients get used to them. Keep in mind that many dentures must be work all day and be removed only for cleaning. Also, be careful of biting down on an uncomfortable denture or trying to force a denture into place. Additionally, your mouth and jaw will naturally change and shift as you age, causing your dentures to no longer work as well as it first did. It is not uncommon to need to adjust, replace or fix it, requiring multiple visits to the dentist.

Resin-bonded Bridge

A resin-bonded bridge, or sometimes referred to as a Maryland Bridge, is used to replace missing front teeth, that don’t endure the strong forces associated with chewing that back teeth endure. This type of bridge has two wings on each side that attach to healthy teeth adjacent to the missing one. Unlike regular bridges, a  resin-bonded bridge does not require preparing the teeth by grinding down the healthy teeth.  Unfortunately, they often do not last as long as other bridges, or nearly as long as dental implants.

Fixed Bridges

Fixed bridges are a kind of restoration generally used when multiple teeth are missing. The fixed bridge is cemented into place. Once bonded, it can only be removed by a dentist. The bridge consists of two ends, or crowns, which cover the attachment teeth on either end of the bridge. Between the two crowns, is what is called a pontic, or bridge, that replaces the missing tooth. Placing a bridge can take multiple visits to the dentist. To begin, the dentist will need to prepare the teeth that will receive the crowns. These teeth generally have some part of them removed to allow for the attachment of the bridge. The dentist will then take an impression of your teeth and send it off to a lab where the bridge is made. The bridge is made out of metal, ceramics, and a glass-ceramic combination. You’ll receive a temporary bridge to cover the exposed teeth while you wait for the permanent one to be made. During the follow-up visits, the bridge is fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place. Fixed bridges affect the teeth next to the bridge and can cause them to become irritated. They also may require extra effort to clean under the pontic. The bone underneath the pontic may naturally recede, causing a change in your teeth and face structure.

Why should I get a composite filling instead of an amalgam filling?

When you need to get a cavity filled, your doctor may present you with a number of options. It can be confusing and intimidating to have to choose between the two or more different types of fillings that can be used. In this article we will discuss two of the most common types of fillings, a composite filling and an amalgam filling.

What is the difference between the two?

An amalgam is a kind of filling material that has been used for more than 150 years. It is a mixture of metals: liquid mercury, and a powdered allow composted of silver, tin, and copper. The mercury is used to bind together the other metals to form the amalgam. About fifty percent of the amalgam is mercury by weight. A composite filling is a resin made from plastic and glass. The resin is tooth-colored and is used to help restore small to medium sized cavities or decay in teeth. The fillings are able to withstand the pressure and constant stress of chewing. They can be used on the front or back teeth, and, for people who prefer their fillings to look more natural, they are an excellent choice.

How are the fillings applied?

For the amalgam, the dentist will mix the powdered alloy with the liquid mercury to form the amalgam putty, after the tooth has been drilled to remove any decay. The softened putty is then placed and shaped in the cavity to where it rapidly hardens to form a filling. A composite filling is placed after drilling the decayed part of the tooth, then thoroughly cleaning the tooth, before finally drying the area to be filled. The composite is then placed in successive layers and hardened using a special light. The process continues in this way until the cavity is filled. Finally, the composite is polished to help prevent staining and early wear. The composite will then bond with the remaining structure of the tooth. This helps to prevent further breaking, and to also insulate the teeth from excessive temperature changes. Because composites preserve your natural smile, they have a clear advantage over amalgam fillings. The process can often be done in a single visit. Your dentist can even match the shade of your natural tooth by blending the composites. If the patient fears excessive staining, then a  clear plastic coating can be applied. Composites do tend to wear out sooner in large cavities, but they hold up just as well in small cavities. The amalgam does offer a strong and long-lasting filling that is less likely to break, and is also the least expensive type of filling material. But, it does carry with it some risks: The elemental mercury present in over 50% of the amalgam filling may release low levels of mercury vapor that can be inhaled. Mercury can accumulate in the body, causing damage to the brain and kidneys. According to the FDA website: “High levels of mercury vapor exposure are associated with adverse effects in the brain and the kidneys”. Dental amalgam fillings are generally considered safe for adults and children older than 6, as the amount of mercury vapor accumulated is not enough to damage vital organs. There are some disadvantages to composite fillings. They tend to cost more and may not be covered by all insurances, so be sure to check with your provider. However, as composites improve, more insurance companies may  increase their coverage of composites.

What makes composite fillings a better choice

Your smile is your signature, and many people want to preserve the signature they were born with, or have spent hundreds of dollars on perfecting. Don’t let a single cavity undo all that work! Composite fillings offer two big advantages over amalgam fillings: you get to retain your natural smile, and they do not contain any elemental mercury. Composite fillings are a fantastic choice for keeping your smile looking natural and healthy. While the mercury present in amalgam fillings might not be harmful, you may still be allergic to any of the other metals present in the filling. Also, the effects of the mercury vapor on fetus development and children breastfeeding has not been adequately researched for there to be enough data to make an informed recommendation.

The secret best option

Even those of us who keep up with their regular oral hygiene routine may develop a cavity. That is why it is important to maintain a regular oral health routine to help ensure your teeth remain strong and healthy throughout your lifetime. Here are some of the best practices to maintain your oral health:
  • Brush twice a day, or more if eating sweet or sticky foods.
  • Brush with short, even strokes, being sure to reach every tooth surface. Don’t push hard when brushing, your teeth don’t need to be handled roughly.
  • Use a fluoridated toothpaste to help rebuild your tooth enamel. Check the label before purchasing a toothpaste to make sure that it is fluoridated. Fluoride helps rebuild the enamel of your teeth, repairing small cracks and decay!
  • Floss at least once a day to help remove plaque build up from between the teeth.
  • Avoid damaging foods, like sugary drinks, or hard candy.
  • Avoid habits that help destroy your teeth, like smoking.
  • Visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups at least once every six months.
Follow these simple rules and you can be sure to preserve your smile for your entire life. Always be sure to consult your dentist when you are unsure about what steps to take to improve your oral health. Even if you have not taken care of your oral health in the past, each day you do adds up overtime. Oral health is a long-term project. When considering what type of filling to get from your dentist, consider the information presented in this article and talk with your dentist. They may have a recommendation that can make the decision making process easier.
Dental Fillings

Why Switch to White Composite Fillings?

If you currently have silver amalgam fillings and want to change the filling, you may wonder what a white composite filling offers. Whether it is because you dislike the metal color of the filling, and like many people prefer the natural color of your tooth, a white composite filling is a good choice as an alternative. They are tooth-colored and can be blended by your dentist to match the look of your tooth. In this article, we’ll look at the different types of fillings available and why you might consider going with a white, or composite filling instead.

What is a composite filling? What is an amalgam?

White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made of a variety of materials, often either resin, with some being made from a ceramic or glass ionomer material. White composite fillings are becoming more and more popular as having a beautiful smile is the most important thing for many patients. White composites offer a better aesthetic and are less invasive than silver amalgam fillings. A silver amalgam filling is made up of an alloy of the metals mercury, silver, copper, tin and zinc which is used to fill cavities. These are often referred to as simply amalgam fillings. This kind of filling has been used by dentists for more than 100 years to fill and preserve decayed teeth. Silver amalgam fillings are very durable, typically lasting 10 to 15 years and they are strong enough to withstand chewing forces and pressures. They also can be less expensive than some other filling materials, but they do not match the tooth’s natural color, putting them at a substantial disadvantage. Silver amalgam fillings and white composite fillings each have different methods of application. Silver amalgam fillings require the dentist to create a mixture of liquid mercury and various other metals. The mixture is then applied to the tooth, where it quickly sets. White composite fillings are applied differently, in a series of layers alternatively hardened before the next layer is applied. A special high intensity light is used to “cure” or hardens the layer. After the layering process  the dentist will then shape and contour the composite material to the shape of your natural tooth before finally trimming and polishing the final restoration.

What is the process of getting a tooth filled?

A filling always begins with a cavity. A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by the buildup of plaque on the tooth. After a dentist identifies the decay on the tooth, they will then often have to fill the cavity to prevent further decay, or repair a damaged tooth. To treat a cavity, the dentist will first remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then fill the cavity with a filling material. Doing this  will help to prevent the spread of more decay and restores the teeth so they can be used to do their job of chewing and breaking down edible materials. Fillings can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth, or teeth that have been worn down through bad tooth habits, like nail biting or tooth grinding. The dentist will first apply a local anesthetic in order to numb the area around the tooth. Next, the dentist will use a tool, such as a drill, or air abrasion instrument, or even a laser, to remove the decayed area. The choice of tool depends on the dentist’s skill and training, as well as the location and extent of the cavity and the availability of the equipment. After the drilling, the dentist will check to see if all the decay was removed by probing the site. Satisfied there is no more remaining decay, the dentist will clean the space of germs and debris and then prepare it for filling. Finally, after the filling the dentist will finish and polish the tooth.

What are the benefits of a composite filling?

White composite fillings offer many advantages, the strongest being able to matching the natural color of your teeth. Most people have spent good money on making sure they have a healthy smile. Why would you ruin it with a silver amalgam filling, when you can preserve your smile with a white composite filling? White composite fillings also bond to your tooth structure, which helps to create a stronger support for the filling. They also are extremely versatile. They are used to repair worn, chipped, or broken teeth in addition to filling a cavity. They also spare healthy tooth structure, as less of the structure will need to be removed in order for the cavity to be drilled and set. While composite fillings may require a slightly longer visit, because of the setting process, they offer huge advantages. Some other white fillings also exist on the market, like the previously mentioned glass ionomer. A glass ionomer filling is made of acrylic and a specific type of glass. The glass ionomer will actually release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay. However, glass ionomer has a short durability, lasting five or fewer years, but newer methods are being developed to prolong their lifespan

Why should I not get a silver amalgam filling?

Silver amalgam fillings may be available at a low cost, but they come with some pretty hefty disadvantages. First, they are not aesthetically pleasing as many people prefer to have their natural tooth color preserve where possible. They also discolor the surrounding tooth structure, often creating a grayish hue. Silver amalgam fillings will also require more destruction of the tooth by the dentist, as healthy parts of the tooth may have to be removed in order for there to be enough room for the use of the amalgam. Silver amalgam fillings are made with elemental mercury, and therefore it carries with it some risk. The mercury used in the filing can decay and become a vapor, that when inhaled in high amounts, can lead to major damage to the brain and kidneys. However, the FDA has found no link between the silver amalgam fillings and health problems, and considers them safe for adults and children over 6. Additionally, for only a small percentage of people, the elemental mercury used in silver amalgam fillings may cause an allergic reaction. As for infants and fetuses, there simply isn’t enough data available for the FDA to make an accurate evaluation on the effect of silver amalgam fillings on their health. The FDA has recently made a statement saying “Dental amalgams contain mercury, which may have neurotoxic effects on the nervous systems of developing children and fetuses” and “Pregnant women and persons who may have a health condition that makes them more sensitive to mercury exposure, including individuals with existing high levels of mercury bioburden, should not avoid seeking dental care, but should discuss options with their health practitioner.” When considering silver amalgam fillings, talk with your doctor to make sure that  you have considered all your options, and listen to their recommendation. Consider a white composite filling next time your doctor informs you that you need to have a filling to help preserve your wonderful smile.