Stoke Road Dental Practice, Portsmouth, Gosport

A filling is a structural replacement for a part of a tooth that has been lost through accidental damage, decay or wear.

There are several types of white filling these include “Composite”, “Glass Ionomer” and “Compomer”.

PROCEDURE

1. The tooth is “numbed” if necessary – if a filling is small then it may not need an anaesthetic.
2. The tooth is prepared to accept the filling, this involves removing any decay / old filling material and ensuring that the remaining tooth structure is sound.
3. The tooth is washed and dried using water and air.
4. The tooth surface is then etched with a mild acid to allow the filling to adhere to the tooth.
5. A bonding agent is then is then applied to the tooth which is “set” using a blue light (a shield is used to protect the eyes). This is called “Light-curing” or “Light-set”
6. The filling material is then placed in the prepared cavity and shaped; this is then Light cured”.
7. Finally the new filling is polished and trimmed as required.

Dentist use (low dose) X-rays that pass through the body to create a X-ray photo or Radiograph.

These images allow the dentist to see deep into the tooth and its roots. They help do identify decay, poor fillings and to check for bone loss around teeth which is a sign of gum disease. X-rays may also help to check on the development of a child’s jaw. They also may check the state of previous dental work and also identify new problems.

At Stoke Road Dental Practice we use special holders (RINN HOLDERS) that you have to bite on to guarantee the X-ray is taken in the correct position. You will be asked to stay very still for a few seconds to ensure a high quality image. The x-ray will take a few minutes to be developed.

Common (small) radiographs taken at Stoke Road Dental Practice include:

1. Bite Wings – these show detail of the back teeth and (in between) but not the roots.
2. Periapical – shows the whole tooth and the root.

Larger radiographs or panoramic images are another type of image that show the whole jaw and teeth. For these images we may refer you a local hospital.

Regular training ensures the dentists make use of the X-ray equipment  safely and improves the quality of the images taken.

“The radiation dose” – is very low, especially for the small x-rays that we take at Stoke Road Dental Practice.

X-rays are NOT taken as routine and are only taken if they are clinically needed.

Our machines are checked yearly to ensure they are working as required.

During pregnancy you may have dental radiographs safely.  You may however, feel to delay the procedure till after the pregnancy – this is fine.

A thorough examination of the mouth and teeth does not always give all the information required. Routine (and even some advanced dental procedures) often rely on X-rays.

It is astonishing that the majority of adults do not know the correct method to clean their own teeth!

The effects of not brushing, may in the long term lead to plaque build-up, tartar or calculus, bleeding gums (gingivitis), bad breath (halitosis), gum diseases, tooth decay, tooth discolouration and ultimately tooth loss!

To keep your dental problems to a minimum, READ ON –

1. Use a medium-bristled tooth brush. Avoid a hard brush to prevent your gums receding.
2. Use a Fluoride toothpaste.
3. Hold the brush on the teeth at approximately 45 degrees to the gums, using circular motions to clean ALL surfaces of the teeth.
4. The gum line is where the tooth enters into the gum. Concentrate on brushing this area, as this is frequently missed.
5. If you have neglected your teeth and gums lately, your gums may be inflamed. If you now start to brush properly, the gums may bleed, however persevere and this should improve over a few days. It is important to tell your dentist that your gums are bleeding.
6. Remember to clean your tongue. You may use a tongue scrubber or you simply use your tooth brush. This will help to reduce bad breath.
7. Brush twice daily for 2-3 minutes.
8. Inter-dental cleaning aids are available such as floss and Tepe brushes.

Come to Stoke Road Dental Practice to find out more.