Many of us are walking around with a mouth full of obsolete dentistry. Dental practices are constantly evolving to ensure more effective, but less painful and invasive procedures. When it comes to caries, which, according to Dentistry Today, is the number one chronic disease in children, less invasive wasn’t always the philosophy.

Up until relatively recently, we were removing not only the caries, but also the healthy part of the tooth. The practice was to remove as much of the tooth as possible in order to prevent further decay. Treating a cavity in a child patient almost always guaranteed the future replacement of amalgam, the material used to restore the tooth. Is it any wonder that dentistry has been the bane of every child’s existence?

What is Amalgam?

The main material used for restorative procedures until the 90s, its properties are conducive to the deep removal of the affected tooth. Now that we’re in an age of aesthetic perfection at a graspable price, amalgam would be considered too unseemly of a material to use, even in pediatric dentistry. It is now considered too invasive to use in pediatric dentistry.

What is Composite?

Composite materials have largely replaced the use of amalgam. Essentially, they are more effective and allow for a minimally invasive procedure, thus being less noticeable and more suitable for pediatric patients. As we all know, children are practically born with a natural aversion to the dental clinic. The less invasive the procedure, the more likely we are to reduce the patient’s stress.

New Products

Today, the ideal composite for pediatric dentistry is G-ænial Universal Flo. This composite resin is mildly invasive and durable. According to GC America, “this highly radiopaque and flowable composite enables easy placement and flow during handling preparation.”

For all your dental restoration needs, be sure to check out Dental Brands’ catalogue.

Sources: http://www.dentistrytoday.com/dental-materials/10151-%20a-new-%20restorative-%20material-for-%20pediatric-dentistry

http://www.gcamerica.com/products/operatory/G-aenialFlowable/