Preventing Cavities & Composite Fillings Q&AVisalia, CA

Preventing Cavities & Composite Fillings Q&A

What is a composite filling?

Composite fillings are the most popular type of filling for cavities at Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids. Composite filling material, a blend of plastic and finely ground glass, is the same color as natural teeth. The unique formulation of composite filling material allows it to bond to the tooth seamlessly.

How does the composite filling process work?

Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill starts by doing a clinical exam of your child's tooth, including X-rays, to see how damaged the tooth is. To prevent any discomfort, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill will administer local anesthesia around the affected tooth. If your child is fearful or worried about dentist appointments, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill can administer nitrous oxide to aid in relaxation.

Once your child is relaxed and comfortable, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill removes the decayed part of the tooth or cavity using handheld dental instruments. With the decay gone, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill buffs the remaining tooth lightly to help the filling material adhere properly. Then he applies the composite filling material and shapes it to fit your child's tooth.

What are the advantages of composite fillings?

Because composite fillings are tooth-colored, they don’t stand out against the tooth like amalgam (silver) or gold fillings do. Composite fillings can give your child a natural, bright smile without the silver or gold spots that reveal the former presence of tooth decay.

Composite fillings require less drilling than amalgam fillings, which means that Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill removes less of your child’s natural tooth structure when placing composite fillings.

Although composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings, even though insurance does usually cover part of the cost, the advantages make it well worth it. Plus, the newest composite filling materials boast excellent longevity, lasting nearly as long as amalgam fillings.

How can my child prevent cavities?

Although composite fillings are an excellent solution for tooth decay, it’s ideal if your child never needs fillings at all. To help your child stay tooth decay-free, it’s vital that you and your child work with Dr. Law and the Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids team to prevent cavities from ever happening.

Between professional preventive care, such as regular teeth cleanings and sealants, and excellent oral hygiene at home, your child can avoid cavities (and the fillings that go along with them)

For composite fillings that you can’t see at all, call Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids to make an appointment with Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Shergill. Call Visalia Dentistry 4 Kids to learn more today at (559) 733-4470