Fillings
Newer dental fillings include ceramic and plastic compounds that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. These compounds, often called composite resins, are usually used on the front teeth, where a natural appearance is important, as well as on the back teeth, depending on the location and extent of the tooth decay. Small cavities on back teeth can be treated with composite resins; however if the cavity is large or extends on many surfaces along the gumline, then a full-coverage baby tooth crown is the treatment of choice.
What’s Right For Your Child?
Several factors influence the performance, durability, longevity, and expense of dental restorations, including:
- The components used in the filling material
- The amount of tooth structure remaining
- Where and how the filling is placed
- The chewing load that the tooth will have to bear
- The length and number of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth
Before your child’s treatment begins, your dentist will discuss all options and help you choose the best filling for your child’s particular case.
Crowns
Crowns are most often used for teeth that are broken, worn, and have large portions of the tooth destroyed by tooth decay. A crown is a “cap” cemented onto an existing tooth that covers the portion of the tooth above the gum line. In effect, the crown becomes the tooth’s new outer surface. Your dentist will present treatment options and help determine which crown would be best for your child’s tooth.
Bonding
Bonding is a conservative way to repair slightly chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth. During dental bonding, a white filling is placed onto your child’s tooth to improve its appearance. The filling “bonds” with the tooth, and because it comes in a variety of tooth-colored shades, it closely matches the appearance of your child’s natural teeth.
Tooth bonding can also be used for fillings instead of amalgam. Many patients prefer bonded fillings because the white color is much less noticeable than silver. Bonding fillings can be used on front or back teeth, depending on the location and extent of tooth decay.
Bonding is less expensive than other cosmetic treatments and can usually be completed in one visit to our office in Richmond, VA. However, bonding can stain and is easier to break than other cosmetic treatments, such as porcelain veneers. If it does break or chip, tell your doctor. The bonding can generally be easily patched or repaired in one visit.
