A pediatric dentist will use white fillings for kids to achieve two things simultaneously. They will use a tooth-colored filling to fill a cavity or fracture while maintaining the tooth's natural color. Like most tooth-colored dental restorations, white fillings have both cosmetic and corrective benefits.
If you are wondering whether a white filling is a good fit for your kid, keep reading to learn more about this dental treatment.
A dental filling is a semi-solid material with the texture and consistency of putty. A dentist will mix this putty just before they apply it to their patient’s teeth. This allows them to create a filling with a shade of white that most closely matches the color of the child’s teeth.
The most affordable and most common type of white filling is composite resin. This is an acrylic compound that closely resembles plastic. Another type of tooth-colored filling is glass ionomer, a substance that is a blend of silicon and an acrylic compound. It resembles ceramic in its look, texture, and translucency.
Sometimes, a dentist will blend these two types of filling to make a hybrid that splits the difference in terms of cost. Here are some questions to ask a pediatric dental specialist about the uses and benefits of tooth-colored fillings:
The white filling material is customizable, meaning that the dentist can blend it into a shade of white that matches a patient’s teeth. Other benefits of composite resin and glass ionomer are:
No. Metal fillings are more rigid and more durable than white ones. They are suitable for molars, which deal with the constant crushing forces of chewing and grinding.
For front teeth, the parent and child have to make a tradeoff between aesthetics and durability. Many patients end up choosing the esthetics of white fillings over the toughness of metal ones.
Severe decay weakens the tooth's outer structure, and direct fillings are inadequate reinforcement for such teeth. A dentist may recommend a different type of restoration instead. They may recommend a tooth-colored crown or partial crown.
If your child has a cavity in need of dental filling, we encourage you to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment. Our pediatric dental specialist will be happy to answer your questions about white fillings for kids.
Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Richmond, TX.
Parents will regularly ask about white fillings for kids when seeking to maintain the natural appearance of their child's smile while effectively treating decay. Are you concerned about the materials used in restorations? Rest assured, modern pediatric dentistry provides safe, tooth-colored alternatives to traditional amalgam options.Dental cavities are a common condition that affects children of…
Finding out that a child has a cavity can be a stressful experience for any parent, leading to questions about treatment options. Dental fillings for kids are a common option, and one that supports long-term bite health and patient comfort. A pediatric dentist carefully crafts each filling to last as long as possible. This can…
Dental fillings for kids are crucial for treating the common childhood dental problem of tooth decay and protecting kids' oral health. Kids are especially susceptible to tooth decay; cavities happen even with the most diligent prevention efforts. Because this common childhood oral health issue can be detrimental, prompt treatment is crucial.Dental fillings are one of…
With a dental filling, a pediatric dentist can restore a tooth with minor to moderate decay or a cavity. Parents can select from several dental fillings for kids, from silver to glass ionomer. During a consultation, a pediatric dentist can guide the parent on when each type is the most effective choice for the patient.Dental…
Visiting a kids dentist provides numerous benefits for children, especially when they go early and frequently throughout their lives. These dentists see patients ranging from toddlers whose first teeth have just erupted to teenagers ready to graduate to a family dentist.Choosing a kids dentist early in life equips children with the knowledge and habits that…
A kids dentist can prevent, treat, and reverse gum disease. Through comprehensive dental treatments, they can address the bacterial buildup that contributes to the earliest stage of gum disease, also known as gingivitis. Comprehensive gingivitis treatments may involve deep dental cleanings, enhanced oral hygiene, and other approaches. The goal is to effectively treat and reverse…