Cavities are caused by tooth decay and result in breakdowns of tooth structure. Cavities can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits. They are often found during routine checkups and exams and may not cause patients any pain until the advanced stages of tooth decay. Digital X-rays may reveal cavities before they are visible to the naked eye.

If your child has a cavity, the decayed material will need to be removed and replaced with restorative materials. Composite resin and porcelain materials more closely match a tooth’s natural appearance. Today’s composite materials are durable, attractive, and strong, which makes them a preferred restoration method. If decay is extensive and there is limited tooth structure, a dental crown may be used to restore health and structure to your child’s mouth. Weak teeth and large fillings can increase the risk of a tooth breaking. When this happens, we will remove and repair the weakened area by fitting a crown over the remainder of the tooth.