Cavities are a very common problem for younger patients. This is due to a combination of reasons, including a high-sugar diet and less than adequate oral hygiene as they learn how to do it themselves. If your child does develop a cavity, it is important to schedule a filling as soon as possible to restore their tooth. Today, your Shirley, NY, pediatric dental team is here to explain when and why dental fillings should be used.
Dental Fillings Help Treat Decay
Tooth decay happens when bacteria buildups and begins to wear away your enamel. Preventive measures such as a proper hygiene routine and regular checkups can help reduce the chances of this occurring, but it is likely that your child will develop a cavity at least once in their lifetime. If caught in the beginning stages, fluoride treatments can be used to add minerals back to the enamel and prevent decay. However, if a cavity has formed already, restorative treatment may be necessary instead.
Dental fillings are a fairly simple and minimally invasive process. After the area has been numbed, the decay will be removed. Then, the space will be cleaned and a strong material like metal or composite resin will be added. This helps restrengthen and protect the dental structure. Primary teeth will need to be restored if a cavity forms, even though these teeth will eventually be lost to make way for the permanent structures. If decay is left untreated on a primary structure, it could make it difficult for the adult one to fully erupt.
Crowns May Be Used For Further Protection
Dental crowns are another restorative option available for kids and adults. This may be used if your child has injured one of their pearly whites or after a severe cavity has been treated. This cap can be made of materials such as metal, zirconia, or porcelain depending on where it is added. If this is used on a primary tooth, the cap will come off when the baby tooth is ready to come out. This can help ensure that the structure is healthy and protects it from harm or premature loss.
Premature tooth loss can happen from injuries, harm, or severe tooth decay. If your little one loses one of their pearly whites too soon, their dentist may recommend a space maintainer. This helps prevent the other structures from shifting out of place, which can disrupt the permanent tooth from erupting. The space maintainer can reduce the time needed for orthodontic care in the future.
Learn More About Our Restorative Options Today
To schedule an appointment for a filling or other treatment, call our team at Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatrics in NY today at 631.399.1600.
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