Cosmetic Dentistry and Restorations
Sealants
Dental sealants are very thin coatings used to fill in deep grooves and pits in teeth that can harbor bacteria. Sealants are applied to healthy chewing surfaces of the teeth to prevent decay and cavities – especially among children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, tooth decay affects more than half of children ages 6-8, and over half of these cavities form in the deep grooves and pits on the biting surfaces of the teeth. By applying sealants, families can prevent decay and the save on the costs associated with filling cavities. The CDC recommends doing so shortly after the molars have emerged from the gums – usually beginning around age 6.
Tooth-Colored Filling
A composite filling is durable plastic filling material that is similar in color to the natural tooth. These fillings look more natural and are less noticeable than the conventional silver fillings. This material is compatible with sealant materials which allows a very conservative removal of tooth structure for the filling and allows sealant to be placed over the healthy portion of the tooth. This filling material contains no mercury.
Crowns
Dental crowns are placed on primary teeth when a large portion of the tooth has been lost due to decay or trauma. Crowns, also known as caps, are fixed over the surfaces of natural tooth structures. At Vestavia Hills Pediatric Dentistry, we offer the traditional stainless steel "silver" crowns and the more aesthetic porcelain crowns.