Cavities and Fillings

 Some tips for cavity prevention:

  • Limit frequency of snacks
  • Encourage brushing, flossing, and rinsing
  • Watch what your kids drink
  • Avoid sticky foods that lay on the teeth for long periods of time
  • Make treats part of meals
  • Choose nutritious snacks

Fillings or Restorations

In the event you child does develop cavities, several factors influence the performance, longevity and expense of dental restorations.

  • The components used in the filling material
  • The amount of tooth structure remaining after the diseased area is removed
  • Where and how the filling is placed
  • The chewing load that the tooth will have to bear
  • The length and number of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth

Our new office is designed specifically for kids and most of our patients think that “getting a filling” is actually fun! We will offer your child the choice of watching TV or a movie. We will also offer your child nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia or “happy air” to help them be more relaxed. Most of the time we will be able to restore teeth with a tooth-colored bonded composite material. Teeth that have more advanced decay will require a full coverage restoration, or stainless steel crown. Before your child’s treatment begins, Dr Alegre will discuss all options and help you choose the best filling for your child’s particular case.