Treatment Options
Depending on the location and size of the cavity, you may have the option of choosing white or metal materials for your child. We can discuss the pros and cons of each option and help you make the best decision for your family.
COSMETIC DENTISTRY for kids
Keeping Kids Smiling
Children can feel self-conscious about chipped teeth, visible cracks or cavities. Cosmetic pediatric dentistry can be a great solution to restoring your child’s confident smile.
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White Composite Resin Fillings
For small cavities, we offer white fillings that blend in well with a tooth’s natural colour. After a small cavity is removed, the dentist will place white composite material to restore the shape and function of the tooth. This is a minimally invasive treatment.
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White Zirconia Crowns
We recommend white zirconia crowns for bigger cavities. Zirconia offers superior strength and durability and these crowns look just like real teeth. They protect the tooth, meaning the chance of new cavities around the crown is very low. This cosmetic dentistry treatment is done in one appointment. After the cavity is removed and any nerve treatment completed, the white crown is put in place.
As this is a longer appointment than a filling, we want to make sure that your child is set up for success. So be honest and brief with your child – tell them that there are cavities or sugar bugs and that the dentist will clean the teeth to remove them. We will also explain the procedure in child-friendly terms during the treatment. All our doctors and staff are trained to achieve optimal success.
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How do I know if a cosmetic dentistry treatment is best for my child?
We can discuss the pros and cons of the white vs metal material options and help you make the best decision for your family.
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Will a white filling prevent more cavities on the same tooth?
Without good oral hygiene and diet, the white filling can get cavities around it again. To ensure good oral health, daily home dental care is essential. This includes brushing and flossing your child’s teeth.
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Will a white zirconia crown prevent more cavities on the same tooth?
Yes – as this crown covers the whole tooth and the margin is under the gingiva, the chance of new cavities around the crown is very low.
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How can I best prepare my child for the treatment?
Be honest and brief. Tell your child that there are cavities or sugar bugs and that the dentist will clean the teeth to remove them. It’s best not to mention anything that might be perceived as negative, such as a needle or pain – we don’t want children to come with heightened anxiety. Rest assured, we will describe the sensation to your child and what to expect for each step of the procedure.
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What if my child feels anxious and is upset?
We find children do better if we set clear expectations. We always explain what we are doing and what the next step is in child-friendly terms. We find that distraction techniques such as chatting about their favourite toy or watching a show like Paw Patrol on the TV can help. Sometimes, a form of sedation will be the best solution. Our pediatric dental specialists will ensure your child is comfortable both in the dental chair and with the procedure. If you’re feeling anxious, it’s important to not transfer that anxiety to the child.
The team at Playtime are first class and a 12 out of 10 in my view. They managed my son’s apprehension in a caring and superstar fashion. Bravo, bravo to them.
V.D.