Tooth Colored Fillings and Sealants for Kids Teeth In Antioch, California
Teeth can begin to show decay and cavities early and children are not generally invested in dental hygiene until they are much older. At Northshore Kids Dental, we specialize in filling both permanent and baby teeth with tooth colored resin fillings. These fillings restore the tooth to its original, functioning condition without having to resort to extraction. The dentist can examine teeth to determine if they are a candidate for tooth-colored fillings.
When Are Dental Fillings Necessary?
When you visit Northshore Kids Dental with your child, they will undergo a comprehensive inspection of each tooth. Our dentists initially inspect each tooth through a physical examination, but also heavily rely on digital x-rays to show what cannot be seen with the naked eye. Tooth decay is a problem among children who do not brush and floss regularly, but with regular examinations, decay can be caught early. Provided there is no extensive damage to the tooth, it can be filled with our tooth-colored filling services in Southern California.
Types Of Dental Fillings
Amalgam and composite fillings are the primary types of fillings you can have done at Northshore Kids Dental. Composite fillings are the more aesthetically pleasing versions. These tooth-colored fillings are placed on teeth that will be showing when the child smiles. They can also be used on molars in the back of the mouth, if necessary, but most often, amalgam or silver fillings are placed in these areas. Amalgam fillings are stronger and last longer than composite fillings.
Why Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Composite or tooth-colored fillings are designed to match the look of natural teeth. They can be placed in affected teeth to restore the appearance while providing ample protection. Both composite and amalgam fillings can be placed in your child’s mouth, but the silver look of amalgam may not be as aesthetically pleasing as matching the natural state of your child’s teeth. Amalgam fillings are generally used on larger fillings or those between teeth for its ultra-strong capabilities, but composite, tooth colored fillings have proven successful and long lasting for general filling needs.
How Are Composite Fillings Placed Inside Teeth?
When placing tooth-colored fillings, the area is numbed to ensure your child remains completely comfortable. In the event that our dentists find it necessary, Northshore Kids Dental may opt for sedation to ensure the child is kept at ease. After the area is numbed, our dentists will clean decay from the tooth and apply an acid etch to clean and disinfect the area. Finally, a composite resin is placed in the space of the affected tooth and a UV light is used to dry it completely. Throughout the process, we at Northshore Kids Dentistry work to ensure complete comfort and post procedure, we can adjust the tooth to ensure your child’s bite is not negatively affected.
Does It Hurt To Get Fillings?
Primarily, the only thing your child will feel is when we apply the numbing agent to the affected tooth. Northshore Kids Dental works diligently to assure all our young patients are as comfortable as possible. Once the numbing agent is placed, your child may feel cold water while cleaning the area and a little pressure. However, no pain is associated with the filling process. Some children can feel slight sensitivity to the treated area, but that will dissipate over time.