Dental Overhangs

An overhang is an excess of dental filling material beyond the normal tooth contour. Older silver fillings can expand and shrink over time causing overhangs. A poorly done filling can also have an overhang. These poor margins can cause bad breath, bleeding and food traps
which can lead to bone loss.

Your dentist or hygienist will monitor your fillings through routine exams and x-rays and recommend the proper treatment when necessary.

Schedule for Childrens Dental Care

Primary teeth eruption

Birth- 3 years old

• Wiping gums with clean cloth after every feeding

• First dental appointment- ADA recommends 6 months after first tooth erupts, many parents choose to wait until there child is closer to the age of 3 and are more cooperative

• As soon as the teeth begin to appear brushing with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste
Fluoride free until at least 1 year old (this depends on the individual child)

• Talking to your dentist and physician about fluoride supplements

3 - 5 years old

• Start regular dental visits twice a year


• fluoride and xrays will be recommended when your dentist thinks it is right for your child


• tooth brushing should be taking place morning and night


• by the age of 4 thumb sucking should be a thing of the past


• your child's tonsils, airway and jaw/ palate formation should be evaluated

6 - 12 years old

• the first permanent molars will erupt around 6 and the second molars around 12 years of age these molars develop with deep grooves that should be evaluated for sealants


• an orthodontic consultation and treatment if necessary

12-18 years old

• Education on dietary choices and decay


• Evaluation for wisdom tooth removal

Permanent teeth eruption