A lot of parents do not understand that baby teeth (or primary teeth) serve a vital role in their child’s dental care. Although baby teeth will ultimately be succeeded by permanent ones, it’s still important to take good care of them. If a baby tooth gets a cavity, it may require a filling. Knowing how fillings work when it comes to baby teeth, their reason for existing, and what to anticipate will help you make decisions from an informed perspective regarding your little one’s dental hygiene. This blog post will cover what you need to know regarding fillings for baby teeth as explained by a dentist in Powell, TN

When Are Fillings for Baby Teeth Needed?

Though baby teeth eventually fall out, they have several important functions, including:

• Aiding with Proper Chewing: Since children cannot chew properly without baby teeth, this makes baby teeth a necessity in eating so that your child gets the nutrients they require.
• Keeping Space for Permanent Teeth: The role of baby teeth is to hold space for permanent teeth, guiding their alignment.
• Development of Speech: Baby teeth must be rightly developed, this will ensure that your child will have a clear and proficient speech development.

Do Baby Teeth Need Fillings? When?

Similar to adult teeth, baby teeth can develop cavities due to plaque buildup, sugary meals, and inadequate oral hygiene. Causes of cavities in baby teeth include:

• Not Brushing Properly: If a person has inconsistent brushing technique, they might miss plaque or food particles that could result in cavities.
• Regular Consumption of Sugary Snacks: Regular intake of candy, juice, and cola can cause tooth decay in children.
• Genetics: Certain children may be predisposed to cavity formation due to genetics, and decent oral care might still warrant fillings.

Common Fillings for Baby Teeth

There are a variety of fillings that can be used on baby teeth and your dentist will select the most appropriate one depending on the size and location of the cavity. Here are common filling types for baby teeth:

Silver (Amalgam) Fillings: Silver fillings are a composite of metals such as mercury, tin, copper, and silver. They are tough and enduring and are perfect for back teeth that experience substantial chewing. These, however, are more pronounced and may not be optimal for areas you want to be visible.

Composite Resin (Tooth-Colored Fillings): Tooth-colored fillings, which are made from a plastic and resin combination, can be color-matched to your child’s natural teeth. Such fillings are especially suitable for visible areas, like front teeth, because they meld harmoniously with the tooth’s structure. Composite resin fillings are not as strong as silver fillings, but they are more cosmetic so they’re perfect for baby teeth.

Stainless Steel Crowns: If the cavity is large and not beneficial to fill, stainless steel crowns are usually used instead. This crown, or cap, fully encases the tooth for a restored function while helping to prevent further harm. These crowns tend to work well for back teeth since they are full coverage and much stronger.

While fillings for baby teeth may sound like a quick fix, they are an important part of maintaining your child’s dental health and avoiding future dental issues. A trusted dentist for fillings in Powell, TN can make all the difference for a child who is anxious about getting a filling. Deciding on the appropriate treatment for cavities in baby teeth helps your child keep a healthy smile and promotes their oral health as they transition into adolescence.