Dental Hygiene and Exams
More than likely, your last visit to our practice was for a routine checkup. Why are routine dental examinations so important? Because preventive care enables us to identify and treat tooth decay, gum disease and soft tissue disease in its earliest stages, which is better for you, in terms of treatment options and saving you money!
If it’s been awhile since your last check up, please give us a call to schedule your routine cleaning and exam with our Dental Hygienist to stay on top of any tooth decay.
Salient Facts About Sealants
Composite Fillings
When a cavity needs filling, there are two basic choices. There is a mixture of metals called an amalgam. Or, a resin composite, consisting of ceramic or glass, blended in a plastic compound. Each has its pros and cons.
Because resin more closely matches the colour of natural teeth, they tend to be less noticeable. This has made them popular. Plus, due to the flexibility of composites, they generally require less drilling.
Once the decay has been removed and the surface prepared, the composite will be laid down in layers. A special light is used to harden each layer. After final shaping to insure a proper bite, the composite filling is polished.
The downside? Composite fillings don’t tend to last as long as amalgam fillings. Additionally there have been some concerns about composites releasing toxic elements as they age. Until there is greater clarity, we’re keeping an eye on the scientific literature.