Cavities, also known as dental caries, are incredibly common in children. More than half of kids ages 6 to 19 will experience at least one cavity at some point. And contrary to popular belief, cavities can happen in baby teeth, too. At Dr. Patty Miami, we treat cavities using high-quality materials that restore the appearance of your little one’s teeth and prevent more issues down the line.
What Are Dental Cavities?
Cavities are little holes that form when a sticky film of bacteria called plaque builds up on the tooth. When you eat or drink foods containing sugar, the bacteria found in plaque create acids that attack your enamel, which is the protective coating that covers teeth. If your enamel wears out, these acids eat away at your tooth, creating a hole – also known as a cavity.
Why Choose Dr. Patty?
For Consultation Call Now: (305) 735-3002
Excellent dental care and outstanding customer service are not the only things that set us apart. At Dr. Patty Miami, we pride ourselves on going above and beyond the mark to offer our clients an upscale, anxiety-free experience at every visit.
Discover the exclusive perks offered at Dr. Patty Miami:
Numbness reversal
Numbness can be limiting, affecting one’s speech, smile, and ability to drink after a visit. Dr. Patty’s reversal process allows clients to leave the dental boutique and carry on with their day as if nothing happened, so you don’t have to worry about canceling your engagements after your procedure.
Laser
The professionals at Dr. Patty Miami are committed to your health and wellness. That’s why we use lasers to offer a safe, anxiety-free dental experience without drills and scalpels. This innovative laser technology has several advantages, including minimal intervention and, in most cases, little-to-no anesthesia.
Sedation dentistry
Multiple options for a more comfortable and nerve-free experience.
Personal Concierge Service
We can arrange everything from RedCap or limo transportation to and from your appointment to making nearby lunch or dinner reservations for after your appointment.
Advanced Digital Surround X-Rays
Minimal exposure, more precise, and digitally stored for your convenience.
State-of-the-art technologies and facilities
Complimentary wine & Nespresso coffee bar, hot towel service, temple massage therapy, paraffin treatments, music & movie selections are just a few of the amenities you’ll find at our ultra-chic, upscale facilities.
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Addressing Cavities With Fillings
Small cavities can be treated with fillings. Dental fillings are different types of synthetic materials used for repairing tooth decay and minor tooth damage. Years ago, silver amalgams were the most popular type of filler.. And while they were effective at fixing dental caries and preventing further damage, they were also unsightly, and some contained heavy metals.
At Dr. Patty Miami, we use white and porcelain fillings only. White composite fillings are made of a mix of different materials, including resin, glass, and ceramic products. These tooth-colored fillings can be applied both to the front or the back of the teeth, and are designed to blend in with the tooth and neighboring teeth.
What Is The Process Of Getting A Filling?
At Dr. Patty Miami, the pediatric dental filling procedure quick and easy:
- Numbing agent: The dentist applies a local anesthetic gel to numb the tooth and surrounding areas.
- Removing tooth decay: Once the tooth is completely asleep, the dentist removes the cavity and cleans the decayed areas around the tooth.
- Filling and polishing: Finally, the dentist applies the tooth-colored filling and waits a few seconds for it to harden. Once the filling is in place, the tooth is polished to make sure the filling feels comfortable and blends naturally with the rest of the teeth.
We understand that for many kids, dental procedures can be a little intimidating. That’s completely understandable! At Dr. Patty Miami, our experienced and caring dentists and staff will walk your child through every step of their procedure, showing them the tools they will use and answering any questions they may have.
For kids who get extra-jittery at the dentist, we can offer safe and effective [sedation dentistry] options to help them feel more at ease during their procedure. Call our office to learn more or request an appointment online.
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Preventing Cavities
Cavities are no fun. Although at Dr. Patty Miami we do everything we can to ensure your child’s cavity filling is as comfortable as possible, prevention is always the best weapon against tooth decay. Here are some tips for preventing cavities in kids and teens:
- Limit sugary snacks
- Encourage daily brushing and flossing
- Avoid sticky foods like gummy bears or fruit roll-ups
- Consider [dental sealants]
- Avoid sugary drinks like juice and sodas
Regular checkups and [dental cleanings] can identify cavities and other dental conditions before they require more serious measures. If a cavity is treated while it’s still small and not causing pain, your child probably won’t need extensive treatment.
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FAQS
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What types of dental filling materials are available in Miami?
Miami dentists offer several types of filling materials to treat cavities:
- Composite Resin (Tooth-Colored Fillings): These match the natural color of your teeth and are ideal for visible areas.
- Amalgam (Silver Fillings): Durable and often used for molars where chewing force is greatest.
- Gold Fillings: Long-lasting but more expensive; less common due to cost.
- Ceramic Fillings: Made of porcelain, resist staining, and are aesthetically pleasing.
- Glass Ionomer: Often used for fillings below the gum line or for pediatric patients.
Your dentist will recommend the best material based on the location of the cavity, your aesthetic preferences, and budget.
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How much does a dental filling cost in Miami?
The cost varies depending on the filling material and the tooth’s location:
- Composite Fillings: Approximately $150 to $300 per tooth.
- Amalgam Fillings: Around $100 to $200 per tooth.
- Gold or Ceramic Fillings: Can range from $250 to $1,500 per tooth.
Dental insurance often covers a portion of the cost. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider and dentist for exact pricing.
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How do I find a reputable dentist for fillings in Miami?
- Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues for referrals.
- Online Reviews: Check reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Healthgrades.
- Credentials: Verify that the dentist is licensed in Florida and a member of professional organizations like the Florida Dental Association.
- Consultations: Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and assess the office environment and staff.
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Are there any specific aftercare instructions for dental fillings in Miami’s climate?
While the climate doesn’t significantly impact filling aftercare, consider the following:
- Hydration: Stay hydrated to maintain saliva flow, which helps protect teeth.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Newly filled teeth might be sensitive to hot or cold foods; avoid extreme temperatures initially.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing to prevent future cavities.
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How long do dental fillings last, and when should they be replaced?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used:
- Composite Fillings: Last about 5 to 7 years.
- Amalgam Fillings: Can last 10 to 15 years or more.
- Gold or Ceramic Fillings: May last 15 years or longer with proper care.
Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the condition of your fillings. Your dentist will advise when a replacement is necessary.
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