As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health, and that includes their dental health. Restorative dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining and restoring the health of your child’s teeth. One of the most common procedures in restorative dentistry for children is dental fillings.
Dental fillings are used to repair cavities caused by tooth decay. When a tooth has a cavity, it means that the hard outer layer of the tooth, called the enamel, has been damaged by bacteria. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Dental fillings are used to fill in the cavity and restore the tooth’s structure and function.
There are several types of dental fillings available for children, including amalgam (silver) fillings, composite (tooth-colored) fillings, and glass ionomer fillings. The type of filling used will depend on the location and size of the cavity, as well as the child’s age and dental health.
Amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. They are strong and durable, making them a good choice for filling cavities in the back teeth, where chewing forces are strongest. However, some parents may be concerned about the mercury content in amalgam fillings.
Composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass materials. They are tooth-colored, making them a more aesthetically pleasing option for filling cavities in the front teeth. Composite fillings are also less likely to cause sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures than amalgam fillings.
Glass ionomer fillings are made of a mixture of glass and acrylic materials. They are tooth-colored and release fluoride, which can help prevent further decay. Glass ionomer fillings are not as strong as amalgam or composite fillings, so they are often used for small cavities or cavities in baby teeth.
In addition to filling cavities, restorative dentistry for children may also include other procedures, such as dental crowns, root canals, and extractions. It’s important to work with a pediatric dentist who has experience in treating children and can provide the best care for your child’s dental health.
Contact Prestige Dental for any of your filing needs.