Copyright 2011 Castro & Hipona Dental Care
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. I have silver fillings. Should I have them replaced? What other materials are available?
A. I think the jury is still out concerning the possible negative effects of silver fillings. People with Fibromyalgia or MS seem to want them all out, from my experience. The silver alloys today contain far less mercury than in days past. This alloy is stable and well functioning. Fillings can be left alone, especially in the back of the mouth, where the alloy's superior resistance to wear is a great asset. For enhancement of esthetics, tooth-colored fillings (composites) are fantastic. They compliment the tooth's color, are increasingly more wear resistant and require less removal of tooth structure since they are bonded in place. Lab-constructed porcelain, hybrid composites and metal restorations are available as well.
Q. What does it mean if my gums bleed?
A. It means you have gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is an acute infection of the gums and is reversible if treated and proper home care is maintained. Periodontitis is a silent disease that affects the bone and tissue surrounding the teeth. Periodontitis is not reversible, but is treatable.
Q. What if I have missing teeth?
A. Many options exist, including bridges or implants. There is no reason to live with missing teeth. Not only does a full set of teeth improve self-esteem but it makes all the other teeth last longer by reducing stress placed on the remaining natural teeth.
A. I think the jury is still out concerning the possible negative effects of silver fillings. People with Fibromyalgia or MS seem to want them all out, from my experience. The silver alloys today contain far less mercury than in days past. This alloy is stable and well functioning. Fillings can be left alone, especially in the back of the mouth, where the alloy's superior resistance to wear is a great asset. For enhancement of esthetics, tooth-colored fillings (composites) are fantastic. They compliment the tooth's color, are increasingly more wear resistant and require less removal of tooth structure since they are bonded in place. Lab-constructed porcelain, hybrid composites and metal restorations are available as well.
Q. What does it mean if my gums bleed?
A. It means you have gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is an acute infection of the gums and is reversible if treated and proper home care is maintained. Periodontitis is a silent disease that affects the bone and tissue surrounding the teeth. Periodontitis is not reversible, but is treatable.
Q. What if I have missing teeth?
A. Many options exist, including bridges or implants. There is no reason to live with missing teeth. Not only does a full set of teeth improve self-esteem but it makes all the other teeth last longer by reducing stress placed on the remaining natural teeth.
