Restorative Dentistryfor Children
What is restorative dentistry?
Types of Dental Restorations for Kids
Strip Crowns
Strip crowns are tooth-colored caps placed on front teeth that develop cavities. These crowns cover the entire tooth and are made of the same material as composite fillings.
Strip crowns have a very natural appearance as the composite material is tooth-colored. Using a clear shell, strip crowns are filled with composite material, then placed on a damaged or decaying tooth. This material will remain in place until it’s hardened, then the plastic-like shell is removed and the hardened crown remains.
Pulpotomy
A tooth consists of several layers of structure. From the outermost layer inward, these include the enamel, dentin and the pulp. The pulp is the deepest portion of a tooth and is filled with nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. When a cavity reaches the pulp of a tooth, the infected portion needs to be removed. This process is called a pulpotomy.
The pulpotomy procedure is most often performed on children with baby teeth and is effective for removing the infected inner pulp beneath the tooth crown to save decaying teeth.
Fillings
Composite fillings include a tooth-colored material, used to restore decay in the front or back teeth, or where a cosmetic concern is located. The shade of the composite material is matched to the natural color of the tooth for a virtually-invisible appearance.
Fillings are the most common types of dental restorations as well as the least invasive. Dental fillings are used to fill cavities, or areas of tooth decay. Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that blend with leftover sugars stuck in the teeth. This mixture eats away at the tooth enamel, causing decay on parts of the tooth.
This is why it’s essential that your child develops a strong oral hygiene routine and visits us regularly for professional cleanings and exams. Cavities can be easily prevented with regular oral care and a commitment to good health!
We’re here to answer your questions, and we want you and your child to know your options! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time.
Dr. Sierra, Dr. Kwon, Dr. Pettit and our team are here to help guide you and your child. We offer kinder, gentler dentistry for kids and teens. It is our goal that your child develops and maintains a positive association with dental care and we do everything we can to create a pleasant, supportive, and fun environment for our little patients.
Ready to schedule an appointment? Let’s get started. Visit us in Town & Country, South Tampa, North Tampa or Bradenton!