Creating Fillings That Are Great For Kids
When your children complain about pain in their smiles, this could be a warning sign of tooth decay. To offer relief, we could place a filling to help prevent infection or the loss of the teeth. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about how we create fillings that are safe for kids of all ages.
When Children Need a Dental Filling
Kids need to have a filling placed when a cavity forms. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria come into contact with the inner dentin, the sensitive material usually protected by the outer enamel. Compromised enamel and exposed dentin is possible due to poor oral hygiene habits that encourage plaque buildup and weaken enamel, or as a result of a cracked to chipped tooth. If your kid attends regular six months checkups, then we will likely diagnose the earliest stages of demineralization and offer treatment before discomfort arises. Otherwise, you may not know your little one needs treatment until he or she complains about sensitivity when eating or drinking, or about a toothache.
Our Metal-Free Material
We don’t use metal for our fillings. Instead, we opt for a synthetic material that blends glass-like and acrylic particles. Known as composite resin, this is safe for kids of all ages, and can also be shaded to blend with the tooth structure, so they look natural too.
Placement and Prevention
To place one, we will administer a local anesthetic to ensure your little one feels calm and comfortable. If your kids have dental anxiety, we also have sedation options as well. We then remove all decay from the tooth and clean it thoroughly. The composite resin is added in several layers. We sculpt and mold the tooth as the material cures under a special light. The last step is to polish the tooth thoroughly. In one visit, we treat the cavity and offer a lifelike restoration.
To help prevent cavities, be sure your little one doesn’t eat or drink items high in sugar on a regular basis, and help them brush and floss properly each day. You should also bring them in for a checkup and cleaning visit so we can monitor their smiles. Now is a great time to do this, as the busy holiday season hasn’t started and you can use any remaining dental insurance benefits too. If you have any questions about treating cavities with fillings in little smiles, then contact our team today to learn more.
Talk to Your Dallas, TX Dentist’s Office About Dental Repair
Don’t let a cavity cause an infection or premature tooth loss for your child. To schedule an appointment and help your kids enjoy better oral health, then contact your Dallas, TX pediatric dentist, Dr. Marr, by calling (214) 321-4880.
filed under: Children's Dental Services