If your child needs one or more teeth filled, composite fillings are a popular alternative to amalgam fillings. Before deciding, bring up any questions with your child's dentist.
These are some of the more frequently asked questions about composite fillings.
Composite fillings consist of a tooth-colored resin containing a plastic mixture reinforced with powdered glass material. Composite fillings provide a more natural appearance than other types because the material can match the color of the natural teeth.
The composite material may also provide dental bonding treatment while repairing cracked, chipped, or broken teeth. It can also improve the appearance of an oddly shaped tooth or close unwanted spaces between teeth for a more pleasing smile.
The exact time to complete the filling procedure varies depending on the size and location of the cavity. Treatments using composite materials usually take about 10-20 minutes longer than amalgam.
The primary advantages of composite fillings are the bonding ability of the material, the ability to prevent tooth sensitivity, and the ability to match the color of the child's natural teeth.
If your child consumes food or drinks that stain the teeth, such as dark soda or sports drinks, the composite material may change colors after getting the filling. A pediatric dentist can place a clear plastic coating over the filling to prevent this. However, composite materials are less durable than amalgam and may wear out and need replacement sooner. For this reason, some pediatric dentists recommend using other materials in the back teeth where there is more bite pressure and the filling is not as visible.
The dentist prepares the tooth and then applies the composite material in layers before hardening each one with a specialized light. Once all the layers have been applied and hardened, the dentist shapes the composite to fit the tooth and then polishes it.
It depends on your insurance plan. Composite materials usually cost more than amalgam. Some insurance plans may cover the cost up to the cost of an equivalent amalgam option, and you will pay the rest.
If your child’s composite fillings are worn due to teeth grinding or chewing, a pediatric dentist may be able to repair them.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Middletown, NY
Composite fillings have many benefits for kids and also a few drawbacks. Generally, many kids prefer the appearance of composite materials, but they cost more and may not last as long as other materials. If your child has a cavity that needs to be filled, a pediatric dentist can answer any additional questions you have and help you select the treatment method you prefer.
Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
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