As a parent, nobody walks you through all of the best treatments and practices to boost your child’s oral health. In fact, you’ll likely find yourself overwhelmed by the endless amounts of conflicting information online! However, one person you can rely on when it comes to taking care of your favorite smile in the world is their pediatric dentist in Pickering. Read below to find out more about your child’s cavity treatment options and learn which may be best for them.
How Do Cavities Form?
Cavities are one of the most common oral health problems among children. In fact, the Canadian Health Measures Survey found that 57 percent of children between six and 11 have or have had a cavity, while 59 percent of youth between 12 and 19 have or have had decay. Cavities are so common in children because they’re still learning how to properly brush and floss their teeth and form healthy dental habits.
Decay is the result of plaque and tartar accumulating on the surface of teeth, resulting in an abundance of harmful oral bacteria. The bacteria feed off of carbohydrates found in these substances and produce waste in the form of enamel-eroding acid. Once the protective outer layer of enamel is weakened, cavities can erode their way through teeth unless they’re treated.
Children’s Cavity Treatments
Pediatric dentists usually offer a couple of different options for treating children’s cavities. Silver diamine fluoride can be used to tackle some of the early signs of decay, helping to strengthen and rebuild the protective enamel tooth layer. However, when cavities have compromised the tooth’s structure more extensively, a filling will most likely be recommended. Parents may have the choice between an amalgam, or metal, cavity filling, or a tooth-colored filling that’s made from biocompatible composite resin.
Each type of filling features its own advantages and drawbacks, but both are considered safe and acceptable treatments for decay. Amalgam fillings are known for their durability and composite resin fillings are known for their aesthetic appearance and ability to fuse with the tooth structure. This creates a tight seal that provides the tooth with optimal protection.
If you’re trying to decide what type of cavity filling to get for your child and you’re unsure of what will be best, speaking with their pediatric dentist will help provide you with some clarity.
About the Author
Dr. Maria Murad completed her dental education at the University of Detroit Mercy as well as advanced pediatric dentistry training at the University of Texas Health Science Centre. She follows the latest, evidence-based guidelines published by the Canadian and American Academies of Pediatric Dentistry and offers a variety of biocompatible, safe treatment options. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit HiFive Kids Dental & Braces’ website or call 289-302-6065.