When your children complain about an aching tooth, or sensitivity when eating, this could mean the presence of a cavity. To prevent more severe symptoms or the onset of an infection, then we may need to place a filling. In today’s blog, your Shirley, NY, pediatric dentist and orthodontist talks about placing our natural looking dental fillings.
When Children Need a Filling
You should give our team a call to schedule a visit if your little ones complain about toothaches, or possibly sensitivity when they eat or drink something. Persistent pain could be due to a cavity, which will grow in severity until treatment. Cavities form when harmful bacteria reach the dentin beneath your protective outer enamel. Poor oral hygiene habits, such as diets high in sugar and starch, combined with improper brushing and flossing, could lead to plaque buildup that weakens and erodes the enamel. Treatment helps prevent the onset of an infection, which could cause further pain and even tooth loss!
Repairing A Cavity
Our team will first take a close look at the tooth with a digital x-ray, which provides detailed images instantly and uses 90% less radiation. We assess the position and extent of the cavity, so we can plan treatment in detail. We then numb the tooth and remove the decay completely. We clean the tooth and apply the filling material. Instead of metal, we use a composite resin, which combines acrylic-like and quartz-like particles that can be shaded to match the tooth. This is safe for kids of all ages. We then cure the material as we sculpt the tooth, and finally polish it for a brighter appearance. In one visit, we treat the cavity and prevent the onset of an infection.
Taking Steps to Avoid Cavities
We could also help lower the risk of future cavities. During each checkup visit, we will remove harmful plaque with a cleaning and apply a fluoride gel to strengthen the outer enamel. Our team could also use dental sealants to protect the rear teeth, which are vulnerable to cavities as kids often have a hard time reaching them when brushing and flossing. The sealants last for up to ten years in some cases. If you have any questions about how we place lifelike dental fillings, or about preventing tooth decay with treatments and better oral hygiene habits, then contact our team today to learn more. Now is a great time to help your children obtain stronger, healthier, and brighter smiles.
Your Shirley, NY, Orthodontist and Pediatric Dentist Places Lifelike Fillings
Our team wants to help treat cavities and protect children from infection and worsening discomfort. To learn more about our custom dental restorations, then contact Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry in Shirley, NY, by calling (631) 399-1600.
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