Dental Fillings For Kids: What Parents Need to Know
Dental fillings for children are a routine procedure and can be an important part of ensuring the well-being of your child’s oral health. In our Rogers, AR dental office, we prioritize compassionate care, making sure children and their parents understand what the procedure for a dental filling entails so that they are informed and comfortable before the day of the procedure.
Why would my child need a dental filling?
Dental fillings are typically recommended for children in order to treat tooth decay. Tooth decay, commonly called cavities, occurs when bacteria in the mouth create acids that erode the tooth’s enamel, leading to small holes. Cavities can cause pain, infections, and more significant dental issues if left untreated.
During a pediatric dental visit and examination, Dr. Caple will examine your child’s teeth to diagnose any cavities or damage that may require a dental filling. If a filling is needed, he will discuss the recommended treatment plan with you and your child to answer any questions and determine the next best step to keep your child’s smile healthy and happy.
Early detection and intervention are vital when dealing with cavities in children. Regular dental check-ups are essential for identifying cavities in their initial stages, as they are often painless.
Why choose composite fillings for your child?
A composite filling is a tooth-colored composite resin used to fill in and repair the portion of a tooth that has decayed or suffered minor damage. There are several reasons why composite fillings are a good choice for your child:
Aesthetics: Composite fillings blend in with the natural teeth and are virtually indistinguishable, making them a great option for visible areas of the mouth.
Safety: Composite fillings are a safe choice for children whose parents are worried about exposure to harmful chemicals. Composite fillings are mercury-free making them much safer for children than the commonly used amalgam (silver) fillings.
Preservation of tooth structure: The tooth structure is preserved with the use of composite fillings because they bond directly to the tooth. This helps preserve the tooth and reduce the risk of future dental problems.
Durability: With proper care, composite fillings can last up to 7 years. (source)
What can I expect during a pediatric dental filling?
At your child’s appointment, the first step the dental assistant will prepare your child for the procedure by numbing the area with an anesthetic injection.
Next, Dr. Caple will prepare the tooth by cleaning out the decayed area using a dental handpiece. Since the area must be kept very dry, a suction tool is used throughout the procedure to prevent saliva from entering the space.
Dr. Caple will prepare the surface of the tooth to receive the filling by making it rough with an acidic gel. This will prepare the tooth to bond well with the filling. A layer of bonding material will be added next and then the first layer of composite will be applied. Each layer of the composite material will be dried with a special light.
How do I care for my child’s dental filling?
After receiving a composite filling, the tooth should function normally. Please wait until all effects of any anesthesia are gone before eating anything hard to chew or too hot. Some people may need to eat soft foods temporarily to avoid irritating any mild initial discomfort or sensitivity with eating.
Dental fillings require regular dental check-ups to ensure they remain intact. Here are some essential tips for caring for your child’s dental fillings:
Maintain proper oral hygiene: Motivate your child to floss their teeth once and brush twice each day.
Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Decreasing the intake of sugary foods and drinks can aid in averting the development of new cavities.
Regular dental visits: Continue scheduling bi-annual dental check-ups to monitor the status of your child’s fillings and catch any potential issues early.
Keeping regular dental appointments can help to keep up with your child’s hygiene and avoid more painful dental problems in the future. If your child is suffering from symptoms of tooth decay, such as jaw pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or toothaches, OR if it has been longer than 6 months since your child’s last visit to the dentist, book an appointment today.
As a pediatric dentist serving patients in Northwest Arkansas for over 27 years, Dr. Brent Caple enjoys helping children build a healthy foundation for a lifetime of oral and dental health.