What Are Baby Teeth Filled With And How Long Do Fillings Last?

If you’re a parent, you probably already know how important it is to take care of your children’s teeth. But what if your child needs a filling? How do you know what filling material is right for them and how long will the filling last? We’ll explore the different types of fillings available for baby teeth, how long they typically last and the dangers associated with not getting a filling at all. Read on to learn more about baby teeth fillings.

What Are Baby Teeth Filled With?

The first teeth to appear in the mouth are called primary, baby, or deciduous teeth. They eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. Baby teeth start to come in (erupt) around 6 months of age. All 20 baby teeth should be in place by age 3.

Most baby teeth have shallow cavities on the chewing surfaces. These cavities are usually filled with tooth-colored resin (plastic). The filling bonds to the tooth and hardens. This type of filling is also used for small cavities in permanent teeth.

How Long Do Fillings Last?

When it comes to your child’s teeth, you want to do everything you can to ensure their smile lasts a lifetime. One way to help protect your child’s teeth is by getting fillings. But how long do fillings last?

Fillings are a dental restoration used to repair cavities or tooth decay. Fillings are made of materials such as gold, silver, composite resin, or ceramic. The type of filling material will determine how long the filling will last. Gold and silver fillings can last up to 15 years, while composite resin and ceramic fillings can last up to 10 years.

It’s important to note that even with a filling, your child’s tooth is still susceptible to decay. That’s why it’s important to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits at home and visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Why Do Baby Teeth Need Fillings?

Baby teeth are filled with a material called amalgam, which is a mixture of metals. The fillings last for many years, but eventually, they may need to be replaced.

How Are Baby Teeth Filled?

The most common type of filling for baby teeth is called a silver diamine fluoride (SDF) filling. It is a quick and easy way to fill cavities and does not require numbing or drilling. The SDF filling contains a colorless, odorless, and non-staining liquid that contains silver and fluoride. It is applied directly to the tooth with a brush or cotton swab.

The SDF filling hardens in about 60 seconds and Forms a Cavity-Filling Barrier That Lasts Up to 2 Years – Longer Than Traditional Fillings. The silver in the SDF helps to kill bacteria and the fluoride helps to strengthen the tooth structure. The SDF filling can be used on baby teeth that have just started to come in as well as on adult teeth.

If you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can get composite resin fillings. These are made of plastic and glass particles that are combined to match the color of your tooth. If taken care of properly, composite resin fillings can last up to ten years.

What Are The Risks Of Not Filling Baby Teeth?

If baby teeth are not filled, there are a few risks. First, the tooth can become infected, which can cause pain and fever. Serious health issues might arise if the illness spreads. Additionally, an abscessed tooth can damage the permanent teeth that are growing behind it. Finally, if baby teeth are not properly cared for, they can fall out prematurely. This can cause problems with eating and speaking and affect the alignment of the permanent teeth.

Conclusion

Baby teeth fillings can be an effective way to help restore your child’s healthy smile. Although most fillings last for years, it is important to keep up with regular dental visits so that any issues with the filling or tooth decay can be addressed quickly and properly. Taking good care of your child’s oral health from a young age by brushing and flossing twice daily, as well as maintaining regular dental checkups are the best ways to ensure their smiles stay healthy for life.