When Are Silver Fillings Used in Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the treatment of kids from birth through adolescence. Pediatric dentists promote the dental health of kids. Your pediatric dentist can help treat your child’s tooth decay with dental fillings. Read on to learn more about dental fillings.

Pediatric dentistry

A cavity develops when a child’s tooth decays or breaks down. A cavity is a hole that grows deeper and also bigger over time and if a child has a cavity, it is beneficial to get it repaired. Treatment will depend on several factors, including the age of the child, symptoms and general health. It will also depend on how severe the child’s condition is. In many cases, the dentist will recommend removing the decayed part of the tooth. It will then be replaced with a particular type of filling.

Dental fillings

Fillings are materials that help repair damage caused by tooth decay. A filling can restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. When a dentist gives a child a filling, the oral health care provider will remove the decayed tooth material and clean the affected area. The dentist will then fill the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material.

A filling can also prevent further decay because it closes spaces where bacteria can enter. A variety of materials can be used for fillings, including dental amalgam, also commonly known as silver fillings. No one type of filling is ideal for every individual. What is right for a patient will be determined by the extent of the repair and where in the mouth the filling is needed. Other things that may be considered are whether a patient has allergies to particular materials and the cost.

Dental amalgam

Dental amalgam is often made from a combination of metals that include silver, mercury, copper and tin. Dental amalgam, sometimes referred to as silver-colored fillings, has been used by dentists for decades. There are many reasons why it is usually used. It lasts for a long time and is more affordable compared to other filling materials like gold fillings or tooth-colored composites.

These silver-colored fillings are durable, which makes them a good choice for large cavities. They are also ideal for cavities that occur in the back teeth where a lot of force is required to chew. Amalgam is known to harden fast, so it is beneficial for areas that are hard to keep dry during placement like below the gumline. Since it takes less time to place compared to tooth-colored fillings, amalgam is an effective material for kids and people with special needs who may find it difficult to stay still during treatment.

Visit your dentist

Paying attention to the health of your kid’s teeth is important. You should help your kid stay healthy by teaching your child good oral hygiene practices. If your child gets a cavity, you should ensure that it is treated as soon as possible. If you have any questions about pediatric dentistry and how silver fillings can help, talk to your pediatric dentist.

Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.

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