Wylie Children's Dentistry Blog

Dentists have used fillings to treat tooth decay in patients of all ages for centuries. Up until recently, the most favored material for dental fillings was amalgam, a blend of metals such as silver, copper, and mercury. While these were effective at restoring damaged teeth, they can be quite visible within someone’s smile and may put the patient at risk for higher levels of mercury in their blood. Here’s why replacing your child’s old amalgam restorations with tooth-colored fillings may be a great idea.

It’s actually not uncommon for children to get dental crowns to help protect their temporary teeth from falling out too early. However, the thought of having to undergo a procedure like this can make you and your little one feel anxious and uneasy, especially if you don’t know what to expect. You’ll be relieved to know that the treatment can be completed in five simple steps by your child’s pediatric dentist. Read on to learn what each step entails.

Dental crowns are crucial protectors for both adults’ and kids’ compromised or decayed teeth, providing essential restoration and enhanced aesthetics. The lasting strength of these crowns depends on factors like chosen material, oral care, and overall dental health. Regular brushing and flossing significantly contribute to extending the life of dental crowns. Keep reading as we explore the typical lifespan of dental crowns for kids, potential factors for their failure, and effective ways to enhance their longevity.

Whether you need to repair a child’s damaged tooth or improve the appearance of their smile, a dental crown could be the perfect solution. One of the most important aspects of dental crowns is ensuring that they blend in with natural teeth. This is where the artful science of color-matching comes into play.

If you’re curious how dentists use color to help restorations match existing teeth, continue reading!

Dental health is as essential for children as it is for adults. One common procedure among children is getting dental fillings. But once those fillings are in place, many parents wonder, “How long can they last?”

When your child’s pediatric dentist states that your little one has a decayed or damaged tooth, you may wonder how they plan to address it. Will they need a dental filling? Is it so bad that the tooth needs to be extracted? In certain situations, the infection may be too severe for a filling to suffice but not enough to warrant a root canal or tooth extraction. In these instances, it may be that a dental crown will be enough. In the past, traditional amalgam was the only way to protect these teeth; however, nowadays, children, just like adults, want a less noticeable option. Here are four reasons to choose a metal-free dental crown to repair your child’s smile.

Keeping your little one healthy is key, and that includes their smiles. It’s crucial to protect your child’s teeth and gums from cavities and decay, even at a young age. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by dentists, but there’s ongoing discussion about the right amount and when to start using it. Keep reading to learn if fluoride is safe for your child and when they should begin using it for dental protection.

Your child’s baby teeth are only in place for a few years, but they are influential in their oral health and development. The biggest threat to teeth is tooth decay, despite being preventable. Cavities are common, especially in children. If your child has a cavity, their pediatric dentist will recommend a dental filling. Although the tooth will eventually fall out, not treating it can have lasting consequences for your child’s dental health. Here’s why fillings are necessary, even when it’s a baby tooth.

(more…)

Your baby will likely be fussy as they get their first teeth. Given this fact, perhaps you’re considering a teething ring for them. This item can, after all, help your tyke manage their pain. Still, it’s natural to wonder, “How safe are teething rings for babies?” You don’t want to buy a harmful tool. Luckily, your pediatric dentist has good news: teething rings are pretty safe. Here’s a summary of what they are, their low risks, and tips on using them safely.

If you had to guess, what would you say is the most common chronic condition among Americans? Joint pain? Allergies? Maybe headaches or migraines?

As it turns out, the answer is tooth decay! This condition is incredibly common among people of all ages, and babies aren’t an exception.

So-called “baby bottle tooth decay” can happen for quite a few reasons, so it’s worth being vigilant about it from an early age. Here are some things you should watch out for, and that you may want to avoid.