Fillings
A filling is a means to repair a decayed tooth and restore it to its normal appearance and function. If your child needs one, the procedure is straightforward: Dr. Gibson will first remove all decayed portions of the tooth, then clean the area and apply the filling to the clean cavity. The filling will guard against additional decay by sealing any cracks or fissures that could permit bacterial growth. Filling materials vary; silver and plastic are the two common types we use. Each has benefits depending on the repair needed and the location of the cavity.
Amalgam, or silver, fillings are tolerated quite well by gum tissue. Their dark color gives them enhanced visibility in the mouth, though, so for aesthetic reasons they’re generally not the first choice for areas such as front teeth.
For those places, as well as anywhere else, composite or plastic resin fillings work well: We custom-craft them to match the exact color of the tooth in question, so they’re highly natural and nearly unnoticeable in appearance. Their durability is their downside; they typically last between three and 10 years. Composites might also not be ideal for larger fillings, as they’re more prone to chipping and wearing over time; coffee, tea, tobacco and other substances can stain them as well.
Are you ready to take charge of your child’s oral health?
“Took my daughter to this office. Dr. Gibson is absolutely wonderful. She is extremely skilled and has an incredible bedside manner. Her office is beautiful and kid friendly. In fact, it’s probably the nicest doctor’s office I’ve ever been to.”
– Marc R.