Pediatric dental patients with chipped or broken teeth have more options for tooth repair than in the past, such as composite fillings. These dental fillings can both restore a tooth and prevent the increased chance of gaps in the smile or shifting teeth that usually follows a tooth extraction. They can also provide a natural-looking restoration when compared with other filling materials, resulting in a healthy, uniform smile.
As the name suggests, composite fillings contain a mix of materials that pediatric dentists can use to either fill cavities or repair broken and chipped teeth. The composite resin includes a variety of ingredients, including:
When mixed, composite resin closely matches the color of tooth enamel (the tooth’s outermost layer). This gives the repaired tooth a more natural appearance when compared to amalgam fillings made of gold, silver, or mercury. Therefore, it can help in both restorative and cosmetic dental procedures. In fact, composite resin is versatile enough to repair damage from various oral health issues, giving pediatric dentists and their patients more choices when attempting to save a tooth.
A chipped tooth can bring discomfort and detract from a smile if the tooth in question is visible. This type of damage can also weaken the rest of the enamel and cause further issues over time. It also brings an increased chance of tooth decay.
To repair a chipped tooth using a composite filling, a pediatric dentist will treat the edge of the chip so the resin adheres to the tooth completely. Next, they will shape and polish it, making it appear as though it is part of the natural tooth. The dentist will then harden the resin with an ultraviolet lighting tool, completing the repair. Composite fillings can last for years with proper care.
Biting down on hard candy, chewing ice, and sports injuries can break teeth. Fortunately, pediatric dentists may repair broken teeth with composite fillings. These restorations are especially helpful when the broken tooth has jagged edges that may affect the tongue or leave sores on the insides of the mouth.
Rather than extracting a broken tooth, the dentist will fill the area with composite resin, then shape it to help it blend in. They will also match the shade of the rest of the damaged tooth.
The most notable advantage of composite fillings is that they blend in with the other teeth seamlessly. When done correctly, most people will not even notice the tooth-colored filling. The benefits of uniform color among the teeth include increased confidence when smiling, talking, and laughing.
However, natural-looking chipped or broken tooth repair is not the only advantage. The bonding ability of the resin can also make a repair simpler, helping children (and adults) with dental anxiety feel more comfortable. Further, composite fillings only require occasional dental inspections and cleanings. Pediatric dentists can perform these during regular teeth cleanings.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Richmond, TX
Natural-looking composite fillings can help children feel more confident about their repaired teeth. From minor cosmetic issues to broken teeth, fillings made from composite resin may help restore your child’s smile. Call today for an appointment with a pediatric dentist.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
With the help of dental fillings for kids, parents can protect the integrity and long-term health of their children’s teeth. The earlier the child receives this procedure, the more comfortable and less invasive it will be. However, there are times when a pediatric dentist may recommend other dental restorations. Explore the pros and cons of…
As a child, getting dental fillings for kids can seem daunting and stressful. However, getting a filling does not have to be such a worrisome event! Caregivers who take the time to prepare their child for what happens during a dental filling appointment often find that the fear of the unknown is the worst part.…
Dental fillings for kids are simple, straightforward procedures from pediatric dentists that help preserve teeth, promote healthy development, and prevent other issues. It is natural to be nervous about taking your child in for dental procedures, especially tooth decay treatments. In addition to knowing your child is in good hands, understanding the procedure and why…
With the help of dental fillings for kids, parents can protect the integrity and long-term health of their children’s teeth. The earlier the child receives this procedure, the more comfortable and less invasive it will be. However, there are times when a pediatric dentist may recommend other dental restorations. Explore the pros and cons of…
Preventive child dentistry helps establish lifelong oral health habits and reduce the risk of dental disease. These principles guide families and dental professionals toward teaching children proactive strategies to protect their developing teeth and gums. Preventive child dentistry supports long-term health outcomes and encourages young people to build confidence in dental care settings.Preventive child dentistry…