Why Are the Metal-Free Fillings Ideal for Children?

When your child has minor cavities, the best treatment is dental fillings. Several options are available, and deciding which is the right dental filling option for you needs careful consideration. This is because they all work differently and have different benefits. We have metal fillings that are durable but are not aesthetically pleasing. Plus, they are costly. For children, metal-free fillings are the best treatment option.

Metal-free fillings are made of composite material. They are not as durable as the metal fillings but offer great benefits such as:

1. The Fillings Resemble the Natural Teeth

The composite fillings resemble the teeth in appearance. Once they are fixed, these fillings will be invisible to the eye. This makes the composite fillings great for all the teeth, especially the front ones. Unlike the metal fillings that can only be fixed in the premolars and molars.

2. Less Sensitivity

One downside of having the metal fillings is that they expand and contract when you eat either hot or cold foods and drinks. Since the composite fillings are made of tooth-colored material and resemble your teeth, they have less sensitivity. They will not change their nature when eating or drinking.

3. Safe for Kids

It is believed that amalgam and other metal fillings contain mercury and other toxic metals that may be harmful to the child’s health. That is why it is recommended you choose the composite fillings because they are safe and are made of a biocompatible material.

4. Strong Teeth

Composite materials bond directly to the teeth, providing more support. This will strengthen the teeth to withstand pressure and also increase their durability. The composite material can also prevent cavity recurrence if proper dental practices are followed.

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Metal-Free Fillings?

While the composite fillings are great and effective, they have some side effects such as:

• Lack of durability. Composite filling wears out faster than the metal fillings, lasting for five years. Plus, they wear out faster if fixed on the back teeth because these teeth experience wear and tear.
• Increased drilling. The application of the composite fillings lasts 20 minutes longer than the metal fillings.
• The composite fillings may chip depending on the location of the teeth.
• They are more expensive than amalgam fillings.

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How Are the Teeth Fillings Fixed?

The dental filling application process is done in steps which include:

• Dental assessment. The dentist will first examine the teeth and the extent of the cavities.
• Next, he will numb the gums around the teeth to be filled. Because most children have a phobia, the dentist may use laughing gas to relax your child and keep them still during the entire procedure.
• Using a drill or laser will be used to remove the decay. The type of instruments that our dentist in Clear Water, FL, will use will depend on your child’s comfort level.
• After removing the decay, the dentist will test the area to check if all the decay is removed.
• The dentist will clean the teeth to remove any bacteria and debris in preparation for the filling. Sometimes, if the decay is near the root, the dentist may protect it using a liner made of composite or glass ionomer.
• The teeth are filled with composite fillings. This is done in layers to attain the required size, and a special light is used to harden the fillings. Next, the composite fillings are reshaped by trimming off the excess material.
• The teeth are polished to look like the rest of the teeth.

How to Prevent Dental Cavities?

Although children are at risk of dental cavities, you can prevent them from using these tips:

• Teach your child the proper brushing techniques and ensure they brush daily and rinse their mouth after eating.
• Use fluoride toothpaste, if the child is of the right age. Speak to the dentist on the right way to use fluoride toothpaste.
• Bring your child for a comprehensive dental examination and cleaning every six months.

Visit Soni Smiles for more information on the metal-free fillings and how they benefit your child.