New Restorative Materials in Pediatric Dentistry

When it comes to restorative dentistry for kids, children are in a bit of a unique position. Unlike adults, their teeth are still growing and developing, and they require a bit more care than an adult would need to feel comfortable throughout a procedure. To ensure children get the best without being too intrusive, advances in new restorative materials in pediatric dentistry have been developed.

Bioactive Composite Resins

Composite resins are the most common material used in restorative dentistry for both kids and adults alike. As such, research and development have endeavored to improve upon composite resins and have created bioactive composite resins. These are a compound of resin and glass ionomer that contain surface pre-reacted glass as a filler within the resin. This gives it properties like cariostatic qualities and an anti-plaque effect to better prevent further damage. When applied to teeth, this composite resin forms a film when it comes into contact with saliva that repels plaque and neutralizes acids which greatly increases its resilience. You needn’t worry about the resin itself being damaged.

Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer

Another new restorative material in pediatric dentistry, this form of composite resin is unique in that it contains no Bisphenol A that may possibly be unbeneficial to children. This type of resin contains a rubberized component that helps guard against fractures and contains properties that release fluoride calcium and phosphate when it comes into contact with saliva. By creating this hybrid between the rubberized component and a light-curing resin, this material is one of the best to use when preventing further physical damage takes precedence over threats of decay and plaque.

Bulk Fill Composites

Bulk fill composites are light-cure resin that is applied in layers or increments of, typically, 4-5mm of depth. This option has existed for a few years now, but the adoption of bulk-fill composites is finally catching up with the typical 2mm application of restorative resins. The primary benefit of bulk-fill composites is that the application and polymerization of the resin are much quicker and uses a much simpler technique that is beneficial for kids with sensitive teeth. You will also see this resin used when the resin needs to fill out all the void within a tooth because its greater depth is so thorough.

See Also: Children Preventive Dentistry