Dr. Anderson

Dr. Michelle Anderson is a pediatric dentist board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

4 Ways to Prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

A healthy mouth will ensure your child can speak, eat, and smile with confidence later in life. Although
baby teeth are only temporary, a long-term outlook toward dental care is still essential to setting your
child up for success. Baby teeth are still just as susceptible to decay as adult teeth, and one of the most
common ways that babies experience tooth decay is from baby bottles, sippy cups and straw cups. 

Sometimes called bottle rot, it’s important to know its causes and how to avoid them with the help of our pediatric dentist.

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Bottle rot occurs when your baby drinks sugary liquids like milk or formula throughout the day frequently. 

This process encourages the growth of harmful bacteria and acid on the teeth, which wear away at the enamel and lead to decay. Over time, this consistent exposure can cause cavities and even more serious dental pain and infections. Many babies don’t show symptoms at first but if not treated early, it can lead to discomfort and more serious damage to the teeth.

What Causes Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Consistent exposure to sugary drinks causes tooth decay, but there are a few culprits that are specific to
babies. They include:

  • Falling asleep with a bottle in their mouth
  • Consuming sugary drinks, milk, or breast milk before sleeping without cleaning the teeth and mouth afterwards
  • Frequent feeding otherwise known as “grazing” throughout the day
  • Sharing utensils
  • Constant and/or long-term pacifier use

These things promote bacterial growth and without proper oral care, it can lead to decay later on.

How to Prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

There are four ways to prevent exposure to bacteria and prevent further damage.

1. Keep up on AAP guidelines for cleaning

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that for babies under 12 months old, you gently wipe
the gums clean with a soft washcloth. Once the first tooth emerges, use a soft baby toothbrush and a
tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste to gently brush. For children 1-3 years old, use a soft bristle
toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, gently brushing their teeth twice daily for at least two minutes. The
best times to brush are before bed and after breakfast.

2. Only put formula or milk in baby bottles

Giving your baby drinks that are high in sugar content can put them at further risk for tooth decay. Avoid
sugar water, juice, Pediasure or soft drinks. Stick to formula, milk, or water in their bottles.

3. Don’t let them fall asleep with a bottle

Although it may help them sleep, using a bottle as a pacifier can expose your baby’s teeth to sugar and bacteria while they sleep. If you must give them a bottle to sleep with, clean it thoroughly and put water in it instead.

4. Visit a pediatric dentist regularly

Your baby’s pediatric dentist can help keep an eye on any tooth decay and help you learn the best ways
to keep your child’s oral health in good shape. Make sure to schedule your child for regular checkups
and follow your pediatric dentist’s recommendations.

Schedule an Appointment

The best way to ensure your child keeps their teeth healthy is by partnering with Sprout Kids Dentistry.
To get started, contact our Quincy, MA office by calling or filling out our online form.

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Signs My Child May Have a Cavity

Did you know that cavities are common in children? About 42% of 2- to 11-year-olds have at least one cavity. Even preschoolers can get cavities! It’s important to recognize the common signs and symptoms of cavities in children so that you can take action, fast. Knowing what to look for is the best way to ensure your child’s oral health remains intact. This article will discuss some of the most common signs that your child has a cavity and how you can prevent them from happening in the first place.

Tooth Decay in Infants and Toddlers

Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is a common problem. Some of the most common signs that your child may have a cavity are:

  • White spots on the teeth: This is one of the earliest signs of tooth decay. If you see white spots on your child’s teeth, it’s important to take them to the dentist immediately.
  • Brown or black spots on the teeth: These spots are another early sign of tooth decay. If you see them on your child’s teeth, it’s important to take them to the dentist immediately.
  • Sensitivity to cold or hot drinks: If your child complains that their teeth hurt when they drink something cold or hot, they may have a cavity.
  • Pain when chewing: If your child experiences pain chewing, it could be a sign of a cavity.

Early Signs of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is extremely common in children. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in four children aged 2-5 years have at least one untreated decaying tooth.

The good news is that tooth decay is preventable. And if caught early, it can be treated before it causes serious damage. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the early signs of tooth decay so you can protect your child’s smile.

One of the earliest signs of tooth decay could be white spots on the teeth. These spots are areas where the enamel has begun to break down. If you notice white spots on your child’s teeth, schedule a visit with their dentist so they can determine whether or not these spots are indicative of tooth decay.

Another early sign of tooth decay is sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. If your child complains that their teeth hurt when they eat or drink something hot or cold, this could be a sign that they have a cavity.

If you notice any early signs of tooth decay in your child, don’t wait to schedule a dental visit. The sooner you catch and treat cavities, the better!

How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children

Sealants, fluoride, and good oral hygiene can help prevent tooth decay in children. Sealants are a thin coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (the molars). They act as a barrier, preventing food and plaque that can cause cavities.

Fluoride strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities. Children who drink fluoridated water have fewer cavities than those who do not. Fluoride is also available in mouth rinses, gels, and toothpaste.

Good oral hygiene includes brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and eating a balanced diet.

When to See a Dentist About Your Child’s Cavities

If your child is complaining of tooth pain, has sensitive teeth, or is having trouble chewing, it may be time to see a dentist about a possible cavity. Additional signs that your child may have a cavity include white or brown spots on the teeth, and bad breath. If you
notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to get your child’s teeth checked out.

Contact Us Today

To schedule an appointment at Sprout Kids Dentistry, contact our office today at 617-934-6339 or schedule an appointment online.

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Dental Care Tips for Parents: Teaching Kids to Floss

Teaching your kids to brush their teeth is important for their dental health. But with all the other things on your to-do list, it can be easy to let flossing fall by the wayside. Flossing should be part of your child’s daily dental routine. You can follow a few tips to help you make sure your kids’ teeth are healthy and sparkling.

1. Start Early

It is always advisable to teach your kids the importance of flossing in their early stages. While they may not have a lot of teeth yet, those baby teeth are important for their development. Ensure you’re consistently stressing the importance of flossing as recommended by Pediatric Dentistry in Boston, Kids Dentistry. This will help them get into the habit of flossing and make it a part of their daily routine.

2. Use the Right Technique

Using the right technique is the best way to teach kids how to floss. The first step is choosing the right floss type for your child’s needs. If they have sensitive gums, choose a waxed floss that will be gentle on their gums. Show your child how to hold the floss and use a gentle motion to clean between their teeth. It’s important to avoid using too much force, as this can damage the gums. Finally, they should rinse their mouth with water or Mouthwash to remove any remaining debris.

3. Make It Fun

When it comes to flossing, kids can be pretty resistant. They may not like the floss taste or the feeling between their teeth. As a result, many parents need help to get their kids to make flossing a regular part of their oral care routine. The good news is that some simple tricks can make flossing more fun for kids. First, let them choose their floss. There are a variety of flavors and colors available, so they’re sure to find one they like. You can also try using bubble gum-flavored floss or electric toothbrushes with built-in flossers. For added fun, let them choose their toothpaste and toothbrush. If they’re involved in the process, they’re more likely to enjoy it. Finally, make it a game. See who can floss the longest or who can find the most plaque. Whatever you do, make sure that flossing remains a positive experience for your kids.

4. Be a Good Role Model

As a parent, you know it’s important to set a good example for your kids. After all, they’re always watching and learning from you. That’s why it’s important to be a good role model when teaching kids to floss. When you floss every day, your kids will see that taking care of your teeth is important. And when you make flossing a part of your daily routine, they’ll be more likely to do the same. They’re sure to follow suit when you lead by example and show them that flossing is important to you.

Conclusion

Even though flossing may seem like a tedious and time-consuming task, it is important to teach kids the importance of flossing at an early age. By removing plaque and food particles from between the teeth, flossing helps to prevent cavities and gum disease. While you may be tempted to skip the flossing step, it is important to work with Dr. Matt and learn about teaching kids how to floss correctly.

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What to Do About Children Grinding Their Teeth

Is Your Child Grinding Their Teeth?

You may have noticed your child grinding their teeth. This can happen at any time, but it is most
common at night. Your child may not even realize they are doing it. Some common signs that
your child is grinding is if they have tooth sensitivity, have pain when chewing, have pain in
their jaw, or if you hear them grinding when they are sleeping. It’s important to have your child’s dentist exam their teeth when you notice your child has clenching or grinding habits.

Why Do Children Grind Their Teeth?

There are many reasons why children may grind their teeth. Depending on the age of your child,
it could be due to:

  1. Pain Caused by Teething or Earache: As your baby’s teeth come in, they may experience some discomfort. This can lead to grinding as they try to soothe the pain. Teething can also cause earaches, which can further contribute to the problem.
  2. Misalignment of Teeth or jaw bones: If your child’s teeth are not properly aligned, they may grind them to try and correct the problem. This is especially common if their top and bottom teeth do not meet correctly.
  3. Dehydration: If your child does not drink enough water, they may be more likely to grind their teeth. This is because dehydration can cause the mouth to feel dry and irritated.
  4. Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions can lead to teeth grinding. For instance, cerebral palsy has been linked to teeth grinding. This is due to the involuntary muscle movements associated with the condition.

What You Can Do When Your Child Grinds Their Teeth

There are many things you can do to help your child when they grind their teeth. These include:

  1. Give your Child a Teething Toy: If biting down on something hard helps to relieve the pain of teething, a teething toy for very young children can do wonders. The pressure on the gums can help to reduce the urge to grind. For instance, a frozen wet washcloth can be soothing. Make sure the toy is big enough so your child won’t choke on it.
  2. Encourage your Child to Drink More Water: Make sure your child is getting enough water throughout the day. This will help keep their mouth hydrated and reduce the urge to grind. This is also a great way to keep your child healthy overall.
  3. Encourage Your Child to Relax Before Bedtime: A warm bath or a bedtime story can help your child to relax before sleep. This may reduce the amount of grinding that occurs during the night. A calming nighttime routine can also help your child to get a good night’s sleep overall.
  4. Most Importantly, Take Your Child to the Dentist: If you are concerned about your child’s teeth grinding, arrange a visit with the dentist. They can properly assess the situation. This is especially important if the grinding is causing damage to the teeth.

Teeth grinding is a common problem in children. There are many things you can do to help your child when they grind their teeth. Taking the necessary steps to protect your child’s teeth from further damage is essential.

Contact Us Today

If your child is experiencing teeth grinding or clenching, contact Sprout Kids Dentistry today for treatment. Dr. Anderson will be happy to inspect your child’s mouth an jaw and create a personalized treatment plan to help ease teeth grinding.

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Why Gum Health is Important For Children

September is national gum care month, meaning it’s the perfect time to bring up the topic of
keeping your children’s gums clean, specifically, not just making sure they don’t have broccoli
stuck in their teeth.

Why are the Gums Important?

Your gums are the soft tissues in the mouth that hold your teeth in place your entire life. In
addition, they protect the highly sensitive bundles of nerves at the roots of the teeth and seal off
that area from disease and decay-causing bacteria that can infect it. Both your gums and your
(adult) teeth are nearly permanent fixtures in your body, meaning they don’t regenerate like a
fractured bone might over time. That’s why it’s important to keep your gums healthy, because it
helps preserve this important tissue for longer.

Good Gum Health Practices

Despite our best efforts, nearly half of adult Americans have some degree of gingivitis or gum
disease. This is the early stage of gum decay that can lead to symptoms like sensitive teeth,
bleeding gums, and bad breath due to the buildup of bacteria. Helping your young ones develop
healthy gum habits now can help protect them from the development of gum disease and
periodontal disease in the future. The main thing you can do as a parent to encourage good gum health is to schedule routine dental visits for your children. This is because, no matter how good your toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, or flossing habits are, inevitably bacteria will find its way into the little nooks and crannies that you miss. 

This can become tartar that can’t be removed without the help of your dentist or hygienist.
Another habit to pick up at an early age is a gentle technique to clean the gum line without irritating it. The gums are sensitive themselves, so scrubbing them to try to remove plaque buildup may end up
doing more harm than good.

Signs of Gum Disease

As a parent, you’re always paying attention to your kids’ hygiene and health, so you’re often one
of the first people to pick up on symptoms when something seems off. If you notice any of the
following signs of gum disease, regardless of when your last appointment was, it might be a
good idea to schedule another exam to see if there’s anything to worry about. 

Signs of gum disease include:

  • Tooth pain
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drinks
  • Profuse bleeding gums when flossing
  • Swollen or red gums
  • Visibly receding gums

Pediatric Gum Care in Quincy, MA

Our pediatric dental office keeps kids’ experiences at the forefront of everything we do, from
regular cleanings to more substantial procedures. We help your kids feel relaxed and safe as
we use age-appropriate language to educate them on their oral health. To learn more about
what to expect from your first visit, or how we can make this experience as smooth as possible,
browse our website or give our office a call today. We can’t wait to see your loved ones at
Sprout.

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Back To School Is The Best Time For a Dental Checkup

Whether it fills you with dread or elation, the back-to-school season is a unique time to start fresh with new outfits, school supplies, and daily schedules after a summer of out-of-the-ordinary routines. Although it’s probably not your kid’s first idea of how to make this time of year fun, it’s a great time to stop into Sprout Kids Dentistry while you still have a little free time on your hands. We’ll make sure your family’s in good dental health so you can weather the transition back to school without a looming dentist appointment in your future.

Why Back-To-School Checkups are Important

Dental checkups at any time of the year are important when they’re consistent, but doing it before school starts has a few specific benefits.

First, a professional cleaning is easier to maintain on a daily basis for optimal oral health as well as the brightest, best-looking smile. Your kids can start the year beaming and make the most out of their brushing for the crucial first few weeks of first impressions for fresh breath and fewer cavities.

Next, ensuring their dental health is in good condition now saves time and money later. Whether we correct a small problem or help prevent them from appearing at all, this prevents the need for a school-hour appointment that leads to an absence or a worsening condition that causes pain later on.

Finally, Dr. Anderson checks for more than just their oral health during a dental checkup. Did you know that dentists are able to detect illnesses and conditions that are caused by conditions beyond the teeth and mouth? While such a detection is rare, oral health is correlated with overall health, and conditions left untreated in the mouth can affect other parts of the body with time. Prevent this from becoming your reality with a quick and painless checkup at Sprout.

Get Back-To-School Healthy With Your First Visit

The team at Sprout Kids Dentistry and Dr. Anderson are always happy to welcome new patients and new smiles to our pediatric dentist office. Learn more about what to expect on your first visit as well as during regular cleanings by browsing our website or calling our Quincy office location today. Any other questions? Drop us a line by filling out our online contact form.

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5 Tips to Ease Your Child’s Fear of the Dentist

Going to the dentist can be a scary experience for children. Many kids develop a fear of the dentist as a result of their first visit which can lead to problems down the road, such as poor oral hygiene and even cavities. To ensure that your child has healthy teeth and gums, it is essential to ease their fears and make dental visits a positive experience. Here, we will discuss five tips to help your child feel more comfortable at the dentist’s office.

1. Start Them Young

It is best to introduce your child to the dentist from a young age. This will help them get used to the environment and feel more comfortable with the staff. Additionally, it is essential that your child’s first few visits are positive experiences. If possible, try to schedule their appointment for a time when the office is not too busy. This way, they will have the opportunity to meet the dentist and staff in a relaxed setting.

2. Have a Kid-Friendly Tooth Talk

Before your child’s first visit, sit down with them and explain what the dentist does. Use simple words and avoid any negative language. It is also a good idea to show them pictures of the dentist’s office and staff. This will help ease their fears and make them feel more comfortable with going to the dentist. Many dental offices also have children’s books about dentistry that you can read to your child before their appointment.

3. Give Positive Reinforcement

One of the best ways to ease your child’s fear of the dentist is to offer positive reinforcement. For example, you can tell them they will be big kids if they go to the dentist. You can also offer rewards for good behavior, such as a toy or a trip to the park. This will help to make dental visits more positive experiences for your child. Several dental offices also offer goodie bags for kids after their appointments.

4. Emphasize Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits

Another way to ease your child’s fear of the dentist is to emphasize the importance of healthy oral hygiene habits. Explain to them that the dentist is there to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. You can also show them how to brush and floss their teeth properly and explain why this is important. This will help them understand that dental visits are not something to be afraid of.

5. Select a Dentist That Specializes In Kids

It is also essential to select a dentist that specializes in kids. This way, you can ensure that your child receives the best care possible. Sprout Kids Dentistry is an excellent option for families with young children. They offer a wide range of services, including regular checkups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments. Sprout Kids Dentistry also has a team of experienced and friendly staff members dedicated to providing the best possible care for your child.

Making dental visits a positive experience for your child is essential for oral health. By following these tips, you can ease your child’s fear of the dentist and ensure they have healthy teeth and gums.

Schedule a Consultation

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Anderson and her team, you can call our Quincy, MA office at 617-934-6339 or fill out an online contact form. We look forward to meeting you!

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How To Spot When Your Baby Is Teething

When it comes to teething, all babies are different. But your baby will probably get their first tooth sometime before their first birthday. Although rare, some babies are born with teeth. These are called Natal teeth. Other babies may start teething before they are 4 months old, and some after age 1. But in general, most babies start teething at around 6 months. If you have been noticing your baby’s gums are inflamed, or rounded…getting extra puffy, or spot bleeding, it may just be a matter of weeks to a month before you see a pearly white baby tooth starting to poke through. When your baby is teething, you’ll notice other signs, along with swollen gums and excessive drooling. 

  • Teething babies will often try to gnaw and chew on anything they can get in their mouths. 
  • If your baby’s teething pain crosses over to their ear canal, you may find them tugging at their ears too, or shaking their head from side to side as if they are gesturing no no no.
  •  You might even notice a change in their eating habits, depending on how the pressure of sucking down milk or chewing on foods makes them feel. Some babies may want to drink more milk than eat solids, while other babies may do the opposite.
  • Your baby may have a mild temperature of 38C
  • They may have 1 flushed cheek
  • They may have a rash on their face
  • Your baby may have a diarrhea
  • They may experience difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
  • Your baby may be overly fussy or cranky

So you might ask, what can I do to ease my baby’s discomfort?

  • Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger, knuckle, or finger wisp, or moistened gauze pad.
  • Hold a cold washcloth, spoon, or chilled teething ring on your baby’s gums.
  • Use plastic or BPA-free toys that are chilled — never frozen solid (ouch!)
  • Offer cold foods like chilled slices of cucumber, frozen pancakes, or waffles, chilled applesauce, yogurts, or pureed fruits if your baby is already eating solids. These are great ways to reduce pain, learn to chew, and enjoy new foods at the same time — but always keep a watchful eye on them, because some foods could be a choking hazard.
  • Use occasional over-the-counter baby Tylenol or ibuprofen, with your pediatrician’s OK.
  • Avoid Orajel since they are not meant to be ingested and with excessive drooling, it is unlikely that the Orajel will adhere to their gums.

When my baby’s teeth start to arrive, what can I expect to see? Great question! Here’s a loose guide:

  • bottom incisors (bottom front teeth) – these are usually the first to come through, usually at around 5 to 7 months
  • top incisors (top front teeth) – these tend to come through at about 6 to 8 months
  • top lateral incisors (either side of the top front teeth) – these come through at around 9 to 11 months
  • bottom lateral incisors (either side of the bottom front teeth) – these come through at around 10 to 12 months
  • first molars (back teeth) – these come through at around 12 to 16 months
  • canines (between the lateral incisors and the first molars) – these come through at around 16 to 20 months
  • second molars – these come through at around 20 to 30 months
  • Most children will have all of their baby teeth by the time they are 2 1/2 years old.

You should make your child’s first dental visit around their first birthday. For tips on how to care for your baby’s teeth, book an appointment with Dr. Anderson at Sprout Kids Dentistry today at 617-328-1700.

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What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

One serious form of decay common among young children is baby bottle tooth decay (Early Childhood Caries). This condition is caused by frequent and prolonged exposures of an infant’s teeth to liquids that contain sugar. Among these liquids are milk (including breast milk), formula, fruit juice, soda and other sweetened drinks.

Putting a baby down for a nap or to bed at night with a bottle other than water can cause serious and rapid tooth decay. Early childhood caries can also occur when a child goes to sleep while breastfeeding or wakes in the middle of the night to breastfeed without having their teeth brushed. Although you may not see the immediate effects of adlib breastfeeding on your baby’s teeth, the unintentional result of weakened enamel and tooth decay may take years to become apparent when your baby is preschool age.

During sleep, the flow of saliva is reduced and the natural self-cleansing action of the mouth is reduced. A sweet beverage pools around your child’s teeth, bathing it, and giving plaque bacteria an opportunity to produce acids that quickly attack tooth enamel. If you must give your baby a bottle to comfort them at bedtime, it should be only warm tap water.

After each bedtime bottle feeding, wipe the baby’s gums and teeth with a damp washcloth or gauze pad to clean away milk and plaque that coats their teeth. The easiest way to do this is to sit down, place your child’s head in your lap or lay your child on a change table or the floor. Whatever position you choose, be sure you can see into your child’s mouth easily.

Developmental Timeline

Encourage your child to drink from a cup as they approach their first birthday. Your goal is to have your baby weaned from the bottle by 12-14 months of age. Next, he/she should be weaned from using sippy cups or straw cups exclusively to drink by 2 years of age.

The American Pediatric Dental Association (AAPD) and The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggest juice should be limited to mealtimes and not offered with snacks. Only water is encouraged in between meals. The AAPD and AAP juice guidelines are as follows:

Juice should not be introduced into the diet of infants before 12 months of age unless clinically indicated. The intake of juice should be limited to, at most, 4 ounces/day in toddlers 1 through 3 years of age, and 4 to 6 ounces/day for children 4 through 6 years of age. For children 7 to 18 years of age, juice intake should be limited to 8 ounces or 1 cup of the recommended 2 to 2.5 cups of fruit servings per day. For more tips on how to care for your baby’s mouth or to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment at Sprout Kids Dentistry with Dr. Anderson, call 617-328-1700.

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White Fillings: Get the facts from your pediatric dentist

When cavities occur and the less-invasive treatment option of a composite resin restoration is a suitable treatment plan for your child, Dr. Anderson at Sprout Kids Dentistry will turn to a white tooth filling to restore an affected tooth. Based on a patient’s unique needs, the appropriate type of dental restoration will be determined.

For children who are unable to cope with the traditional dental setting to deliver dental care, who have a high level of dental anxiety, or who have special needs, we offer Sleep Dentistry as an option for completing multiple dental cavities. Here, a child’s treatment plan may include a combination of dental procedures including white fillings, stainless steel crowns, nerve therapy, and/or extractions. Learn more below about composite resin fillings, or request a consultation online.

What are composite resin fillings?

Composite resin fillings (also known as white fillings) are a type of filling made of glass,  quartz, or other ceramic particles packed within a solid or liquid synthetic organic polymer resin medium to produce a tooth-colored material. They are used to fill cavities, restore tooth decay, or prevent decay (sealants). Sprout Kids Dentistry uses a HEMA-free primer to bond the filling to the enamel or dentin layer, preparing your child’s tooth surface for a secure bond. Our line-up of composite resin products called Beautiful are manufactured by Shofu. They help to preserve healthy enamel and reduce demineralization while still maintaining a high level of bond strength. The composite fillings used at Sprout Kids Dentistry are BPA-free, non-toxic, and completely safe. 

When should composite resin fillings be used?

Also known as filled resins, composite fillings are often used in small to medium-size restorations, as they provide strength, durability, and resistance to fracture. In addition, the shade of composite fillings is made to closely match the patient’s actual teeth, so that other people will not be aware that dental work has been done. In some instances, parents may prefer that their child receives amalgam fillings, depending on their treatment needs, insurance options, or financial limitations.

What does getting composite resin fillings involve?

Composite dental fillings are placed in-office with-or-without laughing gas, or during sleep dentistry under general anesthesia. Before the composite filling procedure, a child will receive local anesthesia (Novacaine) in order to numb the affected tooth and area around the tooth. 

Once completely numbed, your child’s pediatric dentist will use a drill to remove decay from the affected tooth and prepare it for a filling. Then, the composite resin filling will be introduced, bonding involves layering on resin and hardening it using a specialized light to make it strong. The final step involves polishing the tooth and then applying a less viscous composite resin called a dental sealant in order to add an extra layer of protection from future decay or filling fracture.

How long do composite resin fillings last?

Since composite resin fillings are not made of metal it is natural to worry about their durability. Although they are made of man-made materials, your child’s white filling can last for up to 7 years or more with the right aftercare. You can promote how long your child’s filling lasts by following these steps:

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your child’s teeth twice daily for two minutes each session.
  • Use a high quality wax dental floss to clean between any neighboring teeth that are touching.
  • Limit sugary drinks or snacks.
  • Limit consuming foods or drinks that are stain-causing.
  • Don’t use teeth as tools to open packages.
  • Don’t chew on inedible objects like pencils.
  • Don’t chew on ice or overly hard-sticky treats.
  • Visit a pediatric dentist at least twice a year for routine check-ups and cleanings.

If you need to schedule a visit for your child or want to learn more about our dental treatment options for cavities, including composite resin fillings (white tooth fillings), call our office at 617-328-1700 or request an appointment at Sprout Kids Dentistry by filling out the form on this page.

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