Fillings

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What types of tooth fillings does Valley Dentalcare offer?

Our dentists can offer the cavity filling that best suits their patient’s preference, including:

  • Amalgam, silver fillings
  • Composite resins, or tooth-coloured fillings

Why are most tooth fillings silver?

A silver tooth filling is made from Dental amalgam. This has been the standard of care in dentistry for over a century because its durability, long lifespan, and its affordability compared to other cavity filling materials (tooth-coloured composites).The durability of silver amalgam fillings make them the best choice for large cavities or cavities that occur in the back teeth. These molar teeth are used significantly during chewing, and a lot of force is needed. Amalgam fillings can withstand these forces and provide a patient a long-term, reliable filling for a cavity. Another benefit is that amalgam hardens quickly. So, whether the dentist is working in an area that’s difficult to keep dry (like below the gum line) or working with a child or special needs patient, the short set-up time of the amalgam filling makes it a superior choice when time is of the essence.

Is the mercury in silver tooth fillings safe?

Dental amalgam includes mercury content, but when combined with the other metals offers a safe, stable material for filling cavities. Amalgam has been proven to be safe and effective material by many studies and by many organizations. According to the American Dental Association…

The American Dental Association, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U. S. Food and Drug Administration and World Health Organization all agree that based on extensive scientific evidence, dental amalgam is a safe and effective cavity-filling material. The Alzheimer’s Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, Autism Society of America and National Multiple Sclerosis Society—all science-based organizations like the ADA—also say that amalgam poses no health risk.

Are tooth-coloured fillings available?

Tooth-coloured fillings are growing in popularity in recent years because they are more cosmetically-pleasing compared to silver fillings. Made from composite resins, natural-coloured fillings are best for small-to-medium-sized fillings that don’t need to withstand as much chewing pressure as molar teeth.

Teeth Whitening

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Dental bleaching or tooth whitening is a simple procedure which uses safe chemicals to lighten the shade of your teeth.Tooth colour varies between individuals and at different ages – teeth can gradually darken naturally over time. Tooth colour is influenced by a person’s genetic make up and by any surface stains or deposits in or on the teeth. If teeth are discoloured due to external stains or deposits they will need to be cleaned before tooth whitening is undertaken.

We offer both the ‘in surgery blue light whitening’ and the ‘home whitening’ procedures. A course of treatment takes a variable number of days or weeks and results vary depending on the initial darkness of the teeth, the concentration of the gel used and the frequency of application. All of the whitening applications we use are non invasive to the tooth tissue so will not harm the teeth.

Since 2012 teeth whitening can only be legally carried out by trained dental professionals.

Stain Removal (AirFlow)

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Our AirFlow treatment is designed to remove simple tooth staining caused by red wine, tea, coffee and smoking. Although this treatment is not a tooth whitening therapy, the AirFlow will significantly improve tooth brightness and give you a noticeably sparkling fresh healthy mouth in an instant.  This can be significantly enhanced by tooth whitening.

What is AirFlow polishing?

Airflow polishing is a new hygiene cleaning treatment that uses a mixture of air, jet water and fine powder to polish and clean your teeth dramatically. This treatment is not a chemical treatment and therefore there will be no risk to the patients for any irritation or chemical burns. Airflow polishing is an advanced version of a scaling and polish treatment for stain removal allowing you to walk away the same day with amazing, clean results.

Gum Disease & Hygiene

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If you have gum disease, your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and you may also suffer from bad breath.If the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) are not treated, a condition called periodontitis can develop. This affects the tissues that support teeth and hold them in place.  As periodontitis progresses your teeth may become wobbly or fall out.

Each and every dentist at Valley Dentalcare will carry out a gum screening at your check up. This will play an important role in diagnosing and treating any form of gum disease. Dental hygiene treatment will include professionally cleaning your teeth so that plaque retentive factors are eradicated, this is usually called scaling and polishing.Our philosophy to focus on prevention will guarantee that we educate you on the best way to keep your teeth free of plaque and tartar meaning that we can help you to keep your mouth as healthy as possible.

Bad Breath

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Bad breath can be the result of a number of factors, but it’s usually caused by poor oral hygiene. If the bacteria builds up in your mouth, it can cause your breath to smell.

The bacteria break down pieces of food in your mouth, releasing unpleasant-smelling gas. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, any food trapped between your teeth will be broken down by the bacteria, causing bad breath.Persistent bad breath can sometimes be a sign of gum disease.

Eating strongly flavoured foods, such as onions and garlic, can also cause your breath to smell, as can smoking and drinking a lot of alcohol. Occasionally, bad breath can also occur following an infection or illness, or as a result of taking certain types of medication.

Having regular dental check-ups with us will ensure that any oral hygiene problems are picked up and treated early. We will be able to advise you on how often you as an individual will need your check-up.