Houston Dental Fillings – Get The Facts!

If your little one needs a dental filling in Houston, you’ve probably got some questions about the process. And in this blog from Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry, we’re going to give you the answers you need. Read on to learn more, and stay informed while getting your child the pediatric dental care they need.

What Types Of Dental Fillings Are There?

There are two basic types of dental fillings, as follows:

• Composite fillings – Composite fillings are made out of tooth-colored dental resin, which blends in perfectly with your child’s existing tooth. They provide superior aesthetic results, and are very durable and long-lasting, so they’re our preferred method of tooth restoration at Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry.
  
• Amalgam fillings – Metal amalgam is made from a blend of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. It has a silver color that can slightly discolor the teeth, so it’s mostly used in rear teeth, where its durability and longevity allow it to hold up to the wear & tear of biting and chewing more effectively, and aesthetics are not as important.
  

There are also gold and porcelain “fillings,” but these are actually inlays and onlays, not direct fillings, since they are made and placed in two appointments instead of just one appointment at Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry. 

What Are The Benefits Of Dental Fillings?

Wondering how your child can benefit from getting dental fillings? Here are a few benefits.

• Treat cavities early – A small cavity can be treated in just a few minutes with a filling, and the restored tooth will stay healthy for years to come, allowing your child to avoid further issues like deep cavities or an infection that may require a root canal.
  
• Long-lasting – Dental fillings usually last at least 10 years and can last much longer, in some cases, so your child’s smile will stay strong and healthy for years to come.
  
• Save time & money – If left untreated, a cavity will only get worse. Eventually, it may be deep enough to require treatment with a crown or even a root canal. These treatments are both much more expensive. Getting a filling early can save you both time and money.
  

What Can I Expect From The Filling Process?

First, Dr. Jason Brock will clean and numb your child’s mouth to keep them comfortable. Sedation can be administered to help with fear and anxiety, if necessary. Then, Dr. Brock will use a dental drill to gently remove any decayed enamel from your child’s tooth, and clean up the area. 

Once the tooth has been prepared, he will apply dental composite directly to the cavity layer-by-layer, hardening each layer with a UV light. As the composite is applied, he will trim and refine the shape of the filling to restore the tooth.

Lastly, Dr. Brock will check your child’s bite using a special type of paper, and make any final adjustments to ensure that the filling fits perfectly. Then, you and your child will be sent home. 

Does Your Child Need A Filling? Contact Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry Today! 

Fillings don’t have to be scary. At Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Brock can restore your child’s tooth quickly in a safe, child-friendly environment. If you think your child may need a filling in Houston, contact us online or give us a call at (281) 461-7470 to schedule an appointment right away.