Cavities occur when accumulated bacteria eat away at tooth enamel and create a hole. While anyone can get a cavity, they're especially common in children, as most young kids are still learning how to administer proper at-home dental care by brushing and flossing their teeth. When your child gets a cavity, a dentist will remove the decay with a drill, then fill the hole with either an amalgam or composite filling. Here's a brief look at the differences between these two filling materials.

Amalgam Fillings

Typically comprised of silver, copper, tin, zinc, and mercury, amalgam fillings are a popular choice for young children. They're strong, durable, and can withstand the moisture, chewing, and temperature changes that come with eating and drinking. They’re also the most affordable option, which is a big plus when it comes to dental care for young kids, who lose all their baby teeth by the time they’re 12 years old. 

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made of a mix of monomer resin and glass filler. While they're more expensive and slightly less durable than amalgam, they have a white color that makes them hard to distinguish from natural teeth. Some parents prefer this material for their children because it looks more aesthetically pleasing. 

Composite fillings are also cured instantly with UV light, allowing the material to bond directly with your child’s tooth. In addition to making the cavity filling process slightly less invasive, this also makes it harder for decay to creep back into the filled tooth.

If you suspect your child has a cavity or another type of dental issue, get in touch with Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage. Offering dental care to children of all ages—from infants and toddlers to school children and teens—this pediatric dentist provides a calm, comfortable, and friendly environment for routine and emergency procedures. Visit their website to learn more about Dr. Chris Coplin and his team, and call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an exam for your child today.