|
1
.
Does bleaching damage the teeth?
No. When carbamide peroxide, the active whitening agent, contacts water, hydrogen peroxide is released which whitens the teeth. Bleaching does not soften, demineralize or weaken the teeth.
|
|
|
2
.
Do over-the-counter bleaching products work?
There is some evidence that over-the-counter bleaching products do whiten teeth, however, many of the products are too abrasive and can damage the teeth with extended use or misuse. Supervision by Dr. Schechter is always the safest and most effective way to whiten your teeth.
|
|
|
3
.
What are porcelain veneers and why are they used?
Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic material which are bonded to the front of the teeth. This procedure can be an ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth by masking discolorations, whitening teeth and/or reshaping a smile.
|
|
|
4
.
Are silver fillings, fluoride or x-rays, a danger to my health? What are the alternatives?
Dental amalgam, or silver filling material, is a mixture of mercury, and an alloy of silver, tin and copper. The use of amalgam to fill cavities has sharply declined over the last 15 years, as patients increasingly prefer the look of composites, which better match the natural color of teeth. Seventy percent of fillings in the U.S. are now done with composite materials, generally a combination of plastic and silicate, according to the American Dental Association.
Because the act of chewing can release a tiny amount of mercury vapor, scientists have been cautious about giving the metal a clean bill of health. Some people have become so concerned about a potential threat from mercury that they have had their amalgam fillings removed and replaced with composites
The question of whether or not subtle neurological problems may occur over decades remains. Although I do not advocate the replacement of all silver fillings, I no longer utilize silver fillings due to its controversial nature.
Fluoride is a compound of the element fluorine, which is found universally throughout nature in water, soil, air and in most foods. Fluoride is absorbed easily into the tooth enamel, especially in children's growing teeth. Once teeth are developed, fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before the damage is visible.
Radiographs, or x-rays, help Dr. Schechter determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, abscesses, and many abnormal growths such as cysts and tumors. They can help pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination. All health care providers are sensitive to patients' concerns about exposure to radiation. Dr. Schechter has been trained to prescribe radiographs when they are appropriate and to tailor the radiograph schedule to your individual needs. By using state-of-the-art technology, such as digital radiography, and by staying knowledgeable about recent advances, Dr. Schechter utilizes techniques and procedures that minimize your exposure to radiation. Also, Dr. Schechter uses digital photography, which greatly reduces the amount of x-rays that need to be taken.
|
|
