White Crowns and Fillings

As parents, we understand that nothing is more precious than your child’s smile. At Frisco Mini Molars Pediatric Dentistry, we’re dedicated to preserving the beauty and health of those smiles with our advanced white crowns and fillings services. Dr. Laura Mitchell, our board-certified pediatric dentist, has a passion for children’s oral health and has years of experience providing gentle and effective dental care for children of all ages.

What are White Crowns and Fillings?

White crowns and fillings, or composite or tooth-colored restorations, are innovative dental materials designed to restore the function and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth while blending seamlessly with the natural tooth structure. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, which are noticeable and contain mercury, white crowns and fillings utilize composite resin or porcelain materials that closely resemble the color and texture of natural teeth. This material makes them an ideal choice for restoring the smiles of children and adolescents while preserving the aesthetics of their teeth.

What are the Benefits of White Crowns and Fillings?

White crowns and fillings offer numerous advantages for pediatric patients:

Aesthetic Appeal: One of the primary benefits of white crowns and fillings is their ability to blend harmoniously with the natural color of the teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional silver fillings.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: Unlike metal fillings, which require the removal of healthy tooth structure to accommodate the filling material, white crowns and fillings bond directly to the tooth surface, allowing for more conservative treatment and preservation of natural tooth structure.
Biocompatibility: White crowns and fillings are free from mercury and other potentially harmful metals, making them a safer and more biocompatible option for children’s dental restorations.
Durability: Despite their natural appearance, white crowns and fillings are highly durable and can withstand the forces of chewing and biting, providing long-lasting results for pediatric patients.
Reduced Sensitivity: Composite resin materials used in white fillings can help insulate the tooth from temperature changes, reducing the likelihood of post-operative sensitivity commonly associated with metal fillings.

What to Expect When Getting Dental Fillings for Your Child

At Frisco Mini Molars Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that dental procedures can be intimidating, especially for children. We strive to make every experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect when your child undergoes dental fillings at our practice:

Initial Examination: Before proceeding with dental fillings, Dr. Laura Mitchell will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth to assess the extent of the decay or damage. We may take X-rays to provide a comprehensive view of the affected teeth.
Anesthesia: To ensure your child’s comfort during the procedure, we administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Our team will take the time to explain the process to your child gently and reassuringly.
Removal of Decay: Once the tooth is numb, Dr. Mitchell will carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using specialized dental instruments. Our goal is to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible while effectively removing the decay.
Tooth Preparation: After we remove the decay, we will prepare the affected tooth to receive the filling material. This step may involve etching the tooth surface with a mild acid to create a strong bond between the filling and the tooth.
Filling Placement: Depending on the size and location of the cavity, Dr. Mitchell will select the appropriate filling material, such as composite resin. Composite resin fillings, also known as white fillings, are carefully sculpted and shaded to match the tooth’s natural color, providing a seamless and aesthetic restoration.
Bonding and Shaping: The composite resin will be placed into the prepared cavity and shaped to restore the natural contours of the tooth. Dr. Mitchell will then use a special light to cure or harden the filling material, ensuring a durable and long-lasting restoration.
Final Polishing: Once the filling is in place, Dr. Mitchell will polish the tooth to smooth any rough edges and blend the filling seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure. This polish helps to achieve a natural-looking result and ensures your child’s comfort and satisfaction.

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown for Your Child

Like getting a dental filling, the first three steps are the same. Your child will have a thorough exam, we will administer a local anesthetic and remove any decay. The steps are:

Temporary Crown Placement: While you wait for the permanent zirconia crown to be fabricated, Dr. Mitchell will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and allows your child to eat and drink normally until the next appointment.
Crown Placement: Once the permanent zirconia crown is ready, Dr. Mitchell will thoroughly clean the prepared tooth and place the crown.
Crown Fitting and Adjustment: Dr. Mitchell will carefully place the zirconia crown over your child’s prepared tooth to ensure a proper fit and bite alignment. She may make minor adjustments to the crown if necessary for optimal comfort and function.
Crown Cementation: Dr. Mitchell will use a special dental adhesive to permanently cement the zirconia crown after ensuring a perfect fit. This adhesive will create a strong bond between the crown and the tooth, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Final Adjustments and Instructions: Once the crown is securely cemented, Dr. Mitchell will make any final adjustments to ensure your child’s bite is comfortable and functional. She will also provide instructions on caring for the new zirconia crown and maintaining good oral hygiene habits.

White Crowns and Fillings