More Reasons To Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

Article Written By: Kathryn Dawson

Dental fillings are one of the dental procedures that have been given a makeover. Traditionally, amalgam is used in filling cavities in teeth. Dental amalgam is sometimes called silver fillings because of its silvery appearance. It has been used for years to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. Millions of patients have had this procedure and it is a popular filling material because of its ease of application, low cost, and durability.

It is composed of a mixture of metals, usually consisting of mercury and a powdered alloy such as silver, tin, zinc, and copper. Elemental mercury is the main component, comprising about fifty percent of the mixture. Due to the metal content, amalgam fillings can endure heavy biting pressure. They are less likely to break than other types of fillings so they are primarily useful for the back teeth.

However, people are slowly veering away from getting amalgam fillings because of health issues. Controversy over its safety became a prominent discussion since high levels of mercury exposure has been associated with adverse effects in the brain and the kidneys. Some people also have an allergy or sensitivity to mercury or to the other metal components of amalgam. Also, when fillings are used in large areas, these can break or leak after several years. In time, the fillings can also become rough and can darken further because of metal tarnish, leaving a more unsightly area on the tooth.

White fillings are now a more popular choice over silver fillings. White fillings look better since they follow the natural shade of the tooth. They restore the natural appearance of the teeth so the white filling is more aesthetic. Teeth restored using these newer fillings are less sensitive to hot and cold compared with teeth filled with amalgam.

However, the procedure takes longer to do than traditional silver procedure and the material used is more expensive. A trained dentist should also do the procedure because working with this material requires more skill and practice. Being free from mercury, patients usually choose white over silver fillings.

Another way of creating or restoring beautiful smile is through dental implants. The procedure involves restoring the missing teeth which were lost either through accident or injury or damaged due to severe cavities. The use of cosmetic dental implants is also useful to stabilise any loose dentures. The implants are actually artificial tooth roots often made of titanium, surgically screwed to the jaw bone to attach teeth more securely. The implant serves to support the artificial tooth or groups of teeth to replace the missing ones.

Before placing the implant, the dentist will first assess the gums for any disease or decay. Most often, this involves having dental xray procedures or sometimes even a CT scan to ensure healthy gums that are suitable for implantation. This also provides information as to the bone density and allows the dentist to view proximal anatomic structures that should be avoided, such as nerves. When the implant is placed, the patient is given local anaesthesia to numb the area.

A small hole is drilled in the jawbone and this is left to heal for two to six months. During this time, the bone tissue will grow and the titanium implant will be anchored securely. Temporary teeth are mounted during this healing period, although care should be taken to ensure that these are not subjected to considerable pressure or force. When the dental implant is secure, the final permanent artificial teeth are then fitted to it.

If done correctly, the dental implant is indistinguishable from the natural teeth. The result is a fully enhanced smile but also having artificial teeth that function as well as natural teeth.

About the Author

Kathryn Dawson - smile lincs and white fillings uk at low prices.

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