Oral Hygiene is an essential part of a child’s growth. Without proper dental hygiene and care, plaque and tartar from bacterias will build up, and this could lead to tooth decay if left untreated. Tooth decay then will result in cavities or dental caries. To preserve the oral health of the children, Tribeca North Dentistry offers Dental Fillings under Pediatric Dentistry Service.

What is a Baby Tooth?

Some children acquire their first tooth at 12 months of age or their first year, but mostly, a baby tooth erupts at around the 6-7 months of age. A child’s teeth eruption begins on the bottom central incisors and will continue to progress until three years of age. Baby teeth are temporary and will eventually fall off by around the age of 6 or 7 years old. The transition process, wherein baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth, will last approximately until the age of 12 or 13 years old.

Causes of Tooth Decay in a Baby Tooth

Cavities, also called Dental Caries are results of the following:

• Acid-producing bacteria
• Exposure of the gums and teeth to any liquid or food other than water for an extended period.
• A diet high in sugars and starch
• The water supply that has limited or no fluoride in it
• Poor oral hygiene and care
• Less saliva flow than usual; saliva contains phosphate, calcium, and fluoride which helps maintain the enamel surface

Dental Fillings For Kids

Dental Fillings are used to fill the holes in the teeth. The material used could restore the shape, size, and structure of the teeth while maintaining a natural-looking appearance. Fillings protect the baby teeth from further decay that could lead to severe dental complications. At Tribeca North Dentistry, the dentist will drill the tooth and remove the decayed portion. Drilling the teeth will clean the area of the tooth to prepare it for a dental filling. When the tooth is ready, the holes or gaps will then be covered with dental fillings to restore the overall structure of the teeth.

When to Use Dental Fillings for Kids?

Demineralization causes the enamel of the tooth to wear down due to the acidic byproducts of plaques. The enamel of the tooth is formed by minerals such as calcium and phosphate which makes the teeth healthy and durable. When the tooth is decayed, the tooth starts to wear out and will make the enamel of the tooth to be porous. Worn down and porous tooth sometimes lead to cavities or other dental complications.Remineralization is essential to reverse the effects of demineralization. The process neutralizes most of the harmful effects of demineralization through the help of saliva. Saliva helps to naturally neutralize and wash away the acids, sugars, and other substances which can cause dental problems. Saliva is responsible for delivering minerals such as calcium and phosphate to the teeth to aid in regaining what was lost.Minimal cavities and decay of the baby teeth can be restored through remineralization to bring back the lost nutrients but when decay settles into the tooth, the affected portion must be removed, and a dental filling is necessary.

Dental Issues that Require Fillings

• Tooth Decay
• Cracked teeth caused by trauma or an injury
• Incorrectly shaped teeth
• Underdeveloped teeth
• Chipped teeth

Importance of Healthy Baby Teeth

• Baby Teeth enables the children to chew at their young age
• It helps and improves children’s speech.
• They serve as the guide for the adult teeth to erupt properly and in the correct direction.
• A Damaged or decayed baby teeth can lead to issues with the jaw structure, growth, and occlusion.
• Severely damaged teeth and large cavities lead to tooth pain and infection.

Proper Care for your Child’s Baby Teeth

• Limit sweet foods, carbohydrates, and sugary drinks intake.
• Do not let your child sleep with a feeding bottle with juice or milk.
• Assist the child to practice proper dental care and oral hygiene such as proper brushing or flossing of the teeth.
• Even when a repair or dental filling has been performed, make sure to clean the teeth thoroughly to maintain the child’s oral health.

In the end, it is important for children to have healthy baby teeth to perform daily activities without a hassle. Dental Fillings are necessary to repair damaged teeth and to prevent decay.Tribeca North Dentistry is always ready to take action involving you and your child’s oral health. If you want to experience secure and more child-friendly Dental Fillings in New York, contact us to book your child’s appointment for a better overall dental health.