Gentle Treatment for Childhood Cavities
Dental fillings for kids are a simple, effective way to treat cavities and keep your child’s smile healthy. At Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry, we offer gentle, tooth-colored fillings for children in Oklahoma City and Midwest City. These fillings help stop decay, restore the tooth’s strength and function, and blend in naturally with your child’s smile.
Why Do Children Need Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a line of defense against further tooth decay. They’re a very common treatment in childhood dentistry as well as adult dentistry. It’s a proven and effective method to stop decay in its tracks so that the integrity and function of the tooth can be restored and maintained. Getting a filling is not ideal, but it’s a needed treatment for tooth decay.
Why do Baby Teeth Need Fillings?
Tooth decay has a way of spreading. Even though it might seem illogical to bother filling a tooth that will eventually fall out, a filling is needed to help protect the new, permanent tooth. If the decay is left to spread, the baby tooth will rot. But what also can happen is that the gum tissue can become bacteria-infected, and the permanent tooth may begin to decay before it even has a chance to make its first appearance.
What to Expect During a Pediatric Filling
The procedure for placing a dental filling for your child is straightforward and usually completed in a single visit. First, the affected tooth is numbed using a local anesthetic. The decayed material is then removed, and the tooth is cleaned. The chosen filling material is placed into the cavity and shaped to match the tooth’s natural contours. Finally, the filling is hardened using a special light.
Types of Pediatric Dental Fillings
We offer several durable filling options based on your child’s needs and the location of the cavity. Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in naturally with the surrounding teeth and are a popular choice for visible areas. For larger cavities or back teeth, our pediatric dentists may recommend another restorative material for added strength and durability. We’ll walk you through the options and help you choose the best fit for your child’s smile.
How Can Cavities Be Prevented?
Routine dental exams, professional teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and healthy brushing and flossing habits all help reduce your child’s risk of cavities. Regular preventive care allows our pediatric dentists to identify concerns early before restorative treatment becomes necessary.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Filling Appointment
If your child has a cavity or is experiencing tooth discomfort, our experienced pediatric dental team is here to help. Contact Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment at our Oklahoma City or Midwest City office.
