An Overview of Dental Fillings for Kids

Dental fillings for kids are simple, straightforward procedures from pediatric dentists that help preserve teeth, promote healthy development, and prevent other issues. It is natural to be nervous about taking your child in for dental procedures, especially tooth decay treatments. In addition to knowing your child is in good hands, understanding the procedure and why it is needed should help put parents at ease.

The importance of dental fillings for kids

Tooth decay is common in children. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is one of the most common childhood conditions. A cavity is the result of bacteria creating acid that eats away at the enamel, creating a hole.

Left untreated, tooth decay can cause pain, discomfort, infections, and tooth loss. Even cavities in baby teeth are detrimental because they can impact children’s chewing ability and the proper eruption of children’s adult teeth. Therefore, promptly treating cavities with dental fillings for kids is crucial for children’s current and future oral health.

Dental fillings for kids: the procedure

A pediatric dentist is skilled at building rapport with children and helping them acclimate to the environment before beginning the procedure. In addition to connecting with the child to help them feel more comfortable, the dentist will carefully numb the treatment area. The child may feel a little pinch from the needle.

Once the treatment area is numb, the dentist will use a drill to remove the decayed enamel. During this, the child may feel some pressure but no pain. Next, the dentist will fill the cavity with filling material, usually amalgam or tooth-colored composite resin. Depending on the filling material, the dentist will let it set or harden it with a special light.

Getting ready for the procedure

The first thing parents should remember is to stay calm and positive. If parents are at ease about the procedure, their children are more likely to be at ease as well. It can even be helpful for parents to show their children their dental fillings if they have them.

Parents should explain the procedure and emphasize that the dentist is there to help them and prevent pain and discomfort later. Let the child bring a comfort item, such as a favorite stuffed animal. Parents may also wish to let their child bring a coloring book or other toy to distract them in the waiting room.

After the procedure

There is little to no downtime involved with a filling procedure. However, parents should closely monitor their child for about two hours after the procedure and ensure they do not chew anything until the anesthesia has worn off. Make sure the child avoids hot or cold foods that might irritate the treated area, and encourage them to carefully rinse with salt water to help reduce any swelling or discomfort. Pain or infection is unlikely; however, if parents notice signs of either, they should call the dentist immediately.