As a parent, you want what is best for your child. You want them to stay healthy and have their mouth and teeth be healthy also. Sadly, cavities happen to children all the time. So, what is the best way to go about fixing the cavities that your children will get? Smile Reef wants to talk about composite filling and why they are so great to do when your child has a cavity.
Are Composite Fillings Good for Teeth?
Composite filling have many names. You may have heard of composite resins, tooth-colored fillings, or white fillings. These can offer a natural look to your child’s teeth after cavities. A composite filling is made of acrylic resin which is a type of plastic that is made from powdered glass quartz, silica, and other ceramic material. A composite filling is a safe and very effective treatment for cavities. It may not be as strong as a silver filling but it is still as effective and great for your child.
How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?
When you get a composite filling it will last about seven years but some last up to 10 or more. So why do some composite fillings last longer than others? This will depend on a few things that your child does. First, the Location of the filling can play a part in how long it lasts. So can the size and placement technique. Your kid’s diet can play a big part and how well your kids take care of their teeth. And last, does your child have any mouth habits? Meaning does your child grind their teeth? All of these things can be a factor in how long your child’s composite filling will last.
Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings
The great thing about a composite tooth filling is it doesn’t take away from your Child’s wonderful smile. But let’s go over some pros and cons of composite filling.
Pros
-Your child’s tooth will have a natural coloring and appearance on the tooth
-It is durable and will last for many years
-If it becomes damaged it can be replaced
-It bonds with the natural tooth.
-There is less drilling away and more keeping of the natural tooth structure.
Cons
-It is a longer procedure
-It will not last as long as an amalgam filling
-It can end up costing more than amalgam filling
Pediatric Dentistry
The best thing you can do for your child is to make regular dental visits. Cavities like to get into hard places like the back of your teeth and even in between your teeth. By scheduling a regular dental visit, we can do digital x-rays and exam your child’s teeth on a regular basis. We watch for cavities and fix them when they occur. When your child has a cavity, treating it with a composite filling is a great way to keep your child’s smile looking great. Feel free to give Smile Reef a call and schedule your child’s appointment today so they can have a healthy smile.