Restorative Treatments for Children

Pediatric Fillings and Bonding in Anaheim

Restorative dental care is an important part of keeping your child’s smile healthy as they grow. Whether it’s a small cavity or a chipped tooth, we offer safe, effective solutions like tooth-colored fillings, bonding, and when appropriate, amalgam fillings. Each option is designed with your child’s comfort, long-term dental health, and natural appearance in mind.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

We are a mercury-free practice and primarily use composite resin fillings for children. These tooth-colored restorations are made from durable resin materials that bond directly to the tooth, creating a strong seal. They’re ideal for treating cavities and can be used even when a large portion of the tooth has been damaged.

Composite fillings are not only functional but look completely natural. Since they blend in with your child’s smile, they’re great for visible teeth. The resin also contains fluoride, which can help protect the surrounding enamel from future decay.

Another benefit is that these restorations don’t need to be placed at the gum line, making them healthier for the surrounding tissue.

Replacing Old Silver Fillings

If your child has older silver (amalgam) fillings, we can replace them with tooth-colored restorations for improved strength and appearance. This is typically done over two appointments.

During the first visit, we remove the old filling and take an impression of the tooth. A temporary restoration is placed while the permanent one is custom-made. At the second visit, the new filling or onlay is bonded to the tooth and polished to match the surrounding teeth.

The result is a healthier, more natural-looking smile and a stronger tooth structure.

Dental Amalgam (Silver Fillings)

Dental amalgam has been used for over 150 years and remains an effective option in certain situations. It’s a mixture of mercury and other metals, known for its durability and ability to withstand strong chewing forces.

Amalgam is often chosen for its longevity and low cost, especially in back teeth where it’s less visible. On average, amalgam fillings last 10 to 12 years. They’re easier to place in difficult cases, such as when the tooth is hard to keep dry or in areas with limited visibility.

That said, amalgam isn’t always the best choice. For smaller restorations or teeth in visible areas, composite fillings are usually preferred because they require less removal of healthy tooth structure and offer a more natural appearance.

Both amalgam and composite are considered safe and effective materials by the American Dental Association.

Dental Bonding for Kids

Dental bonding is a simple, conservative option for repairing minor cosmetic flaws like chips, cracks, discoloration, or slightly misaligned teeth.

The procedure is quick and typically completed in a single visit. The dentist prepares the surface of the tooth, applies a bonding liquid, and then shapes a tooth-colored resin to match your child’s natural teeth. Once hardened, the bonding is polished for a smooth, natural finish.

Bonding is a great choice for children and teens because it’s painless, cost-effective, and delivers immediate results. While it’s not as strong as enamel and may need touch-ups every few years, it can significantly improve the look of a tooth with minimal effort.