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FAQ’s
What are Silver Fillings (Amalgam)? Are they safe?

Silver Fillings or Dental Amalgam is a filling material used to fill cavities that are hollowed by tooth decay. This method of filling tooth cavities has been used since the 1800s.

Even though they are well-known for the term “Silver Fillings” the material is not entirely made up of silver. It is a mixture of metals/elements:

  • Liquid Mercury
  • Silver
  • Tin
  • Copper

Because of this composition, the issue of safety is commonly raised by patients because of the mercury used in the material and may potential cause health problems. Based on studies conducted by the ADA, a little over three quarters of dentists in America use amalgams that contain mercury to use as fillings. However, further researches are unable to prove the link between medical disorders and the silver fillings that contain mercury.

The general dental community claims that amalgams are safe. This is based on the theory that when mercury is combined with other components of the tooth filling it turns into an inactive substance making it safe for dental use.

However, amalgams are not the only option for tooth fillings. These alternative tooth filling materials can still serve the same purpose:

  • Composite Fillings
  • Porcelain
  • Gold Fillings

Please talk to your dentist if you have safety concerns about tooth filling material that will be used during a procedure. Patients have different reactions to certain procedures and we would like to tailor fit the services you get based on your dental health history and treatment preferences.

What are your treatments available for teeth discoloration?

A1 Dental offers professional teeth bleaching or whitening which is a simple and non-invasive procedure. Such treatments restore your smile’s natural glow.

  • Over-the-Counter Products as recommended for you by your dentist
  • In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedure (usually lasts about an hour and must be done at the dentist’s clinic

Please note that the whiteness of your teeth have to be maintained. Over time, the natural color of the tooth enamel can get stained from the foods that we eat and some habits that cause discoloration such as smoking.

How often should I go see my dentist?

For most people, dental exams are ideally scheduled at least twice a year. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you are going through a particular dental treatment, cosmetic dentistry or have a unique oral health condition that needs closer monitoring.

Regularly visiting your dentist for a check-up will increase your chances of maintaining healthy teeth for a lifetime. Dental exams will usually cover:

  • Gum Disease Assessment
  • Oral Cancer Screening
  • Oral Health Recommendations
  • Rechecking Tooth Restorations or Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Tooth Cleaning / Removal of Tartar
  • Tooth Decay Check
Is it really necessary for me to use dental floss? Why can’t I just brush my teeth?

When you brush your teeth after meals, you remove food particles, plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth. However, brushing your teeth alone does not clean areas that your toothbrush cannot reach such as in between teeth – which is an area that over time will gather plaque and lead to further damage in your teeth, bone and gums.

Flossing enables you to clean in between your teeth to reduce the chances of bacteria build up. In addition to this, flossing also cleans out under the gum line which is necessary to prevent periodontal or gum disease. This is why your dentist will recommend flossing your teeth as often as needed.

What are the different Cosmetic Dentistry procedures available at A1 Dental?

Our dentists are capable and competent in providing you with the cosmetic dentistry services to improve your smile and your confidence.

Here are the Cosmetic Dentistry procedures we have available:

  • Teeth Whitening
  • Composite Fillings
  • Porcelain Veneers and Porcelain Crowns
  • Orthodontics (Aligners and Braces)
What are the signs of Gum Disease?

Gum Disease develops when plaque and bacteria build up in your teeth. These are brought by food debris, saliva and other particles left in the teeth and gum areas when you don’t regularly brush and floss your teeth. Here are the signs that you may have Gum Disease developing in your teeth and must get treatment from your dentist as soon as possible:

  • Red and Swollen Gums
  • Bleeding Gums
  • Chronic Bad Breath
  • Bone Loss in your Teeth / Spacing in between teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Pus building up around the teeth and gums

It is important that you visit your dentist for a dental exam at least twice a year. By taking preventive measures, you could stay away from Gum Disease. These include the simple habits of regularly brushing your teeth and flossing.