Aurora Dental Fillings

Dental fillings replace damaged or decayed tooth structure with a restorative material. Usually, fillings are used to treat cavities, but they can also repair cracked or worn teeth.

There are several different types of filling materials, including:

Silver Amalgam: Silver was once the most commonly used material for dental restorations, such as fillings. This type of filling, however, has become less popular because of how conspicuous it looks against the natural color of teeth. Silver amalgam also does not bond to enamel or dentin well, so amalgam restorations require more removal of tooth structure to allow the filling to lock into place. For these reasons, Epic Dentistry For Kids does not offer amalgam fillings.

White Fillings: After much research, new tooth-colored materials have been developed that are stronger, more durable, and aesthetically pleasing to patients. Unlike amalgam fillings, these composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, strengthening it by restoring most of its original shape. The fillings can even be custom-colored to match teeth for the most natural-looking smile possible.

Many people falsely assume that baby teeth do not require the same care and maintenance that permanent teeth do because they will fall out anyway. However, baby teeth are just as much attention because they are necessary for everyday functions like chewing and talking. Furthermore, baby teeth hold space for adult teeth to grow in correctly. They also stimulate the bones and jaw to develop properly.

Children who have cavities or cracks in their teeth need dental fillings to prevent further decay. These dental fillings keep their teeth and gums safe and healthy. Not getting fillings when they’re needed can result in decay, infection, underdeveloped teeth, misshapen teeth, or worse.

Dental fillings are nothing to be afraid of. The process is relatively quick, painless, and easy with a cooperative patient. Here’s what your child can expect:

1. First, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth that has to be filled. If your child is extremely anxious, we also offer sedation dentistry to help calm them down.
2. Next, a drill or laser will be used to remove any infected or decayed area of the tooth.
3. Then, this area will thoroughly cleaned, so no bacteria can damage the tooth any further.
4. Finally, the tooth will be filled with the choice of filling material and possibly sealed over.

We understand children can be scared of getting their teeth filled, so our pediatric dentist will walk your child over every step and show them what tools will be used. Fear often stems from confusion about the unknown, so it can be comforting to have someone explain each part of the procedure.

Technically, you don’t have to worry about prepping your child for treatment because there is usually no need for general anesthesia or sedation. If your child is nervous about getting dental fillings, however, there are ways to ease their nerves before the appointment.

Have a positive attitude. The words and attitudes we express are more powerful than we think! Be mindful of the way you speak about your child’s upcoming operation. Many children are afraid of going to the dentist because other people make it seem like a terrifying ordeal. While our body language and facial expressions are often subconscious, try to control negative physical reactions when you’re talking about the dentist.

Use kid-friendly language. Use kid-friendly words rather than technical jargon. Again, kids get scared of concepts they don’t understand. Let the pediatric dentist explain complex terms and detailed processes later on.

Establish why going to the dentist is important. While cavities aren’t good, getting them filled is great. It’s important to be very clear about this distinction, so your child doesn’t associate the dentist with feelings of guilt or shame. Kids are more likely to go to the pediatric dentist if they understand how it can benefit them.

Read or watch dentist-related materials. There are tons of books, show, movies, and videos that portray going to the dentist in a positive light. Seeing a relatable character go through the same experience can help reduce their fears. It will also help them understand what goes on during the procedure, so they know what to expect.

Motivate your child. To create a positive association with the dentist, you can reward your child after the appointment for being a mature patient! Instead of cavity-causing sweets, take them out to a movie or get them a new toothbrush.