Cavities in baby teeth can affect children in the same fashion as cavities in adults. Dr. Grinbaum often recommends composite fillings (also called white fillings) for a quick and simple solution. The earlier we catch cavities, the easier and smaller the fillings will need to be. It is recommended that you take a look in your child’s mouth every few days and look for any dark or malshaped areas.

We design strong pediatric composite fillings that are resistant to the daily pressures and forces of chewing and biting. Our white fillings will blend naturally with your child’s real teeth.

When are composite fillings necessary?

During your child’s exam, Dr. G will look for obvious signs of decay. If need be, x-rays will be used to help detect cavities that cannot be seen with the naked eye (for example, between teeth).

Cavities in primary teeth are common because the anatomy of the tooth naturally has thinner enamel than that on permanent teeth. Cavities in baby teeth may occur due to sugar in the child’s diet, going to sleep with bottles of milk, insufficient oral hygiene practices and or genetics. They all play a role in this complex equation of cavity formation.

When the cavity is small or a chip/crack occurs, it can easily be corrected with a white filling. As the cavity grows, it becomes less likely that an easy white filling is sufficient More extensive decay may need to be treated with dental crowns or other restorations.

Why choose composite fillings to treat cavities in Baby Teeth?

There are two types of fillings that are most common when treating cavities in baby teeth. Originally, amalgam fillings were used since the mid 1800s with success. When composites were invented in the 1980s, they were brittle and easily fractured with pressure and they stained easily. Since that time, composites have become just as strong and durable as amalgam fillings but without the unaesthetic silver look.

The advantages of white fillings include:

• Matching the color and the physical appearance of our natural teeth.
• Can remove minimal tooth structure and get very good bonding.
• Composite fillings can be used successfully on chewing surfaces like molars.
• Can restore teeth that have been affected by decay or chips and fractures.
   

How are composite fillings placed?

One of the most important parts of pediatric dentistry at smiles+grins ortho/kids dental, is making your children feel comfortable in our kid-friendly office. Local anesthesia and/or laughing gas may be recommended, depending on the depth and size of the filling (remember, the earlier we catch a cavity, the smaller the filling and less likely to require local anesthesia). The decay is removed from the tooth, leaving strong and healthy tooth structure left. Next, the tooth is etched and prepared for the white filling. Dr. G will place the composite filling and use a blue light to cure (harden) it. Finally, we will make any adjustments necessary to the white filling to ensure a comfortable bite and flawless aesthetic.

It is important to note that technology has changed and dental treatment is no longer a cause to stress over or get scared. If family members speak about dentistry in a poorly fashion, it is likely to be picked up by your child and they will have fear built up before they get to the dentist, making it more difficult to have a fun and relaxing experience.