When a Pediatric Dental Filling is Necessary
As a parent, you may be familiar with getting a dental filling as an adult, but it’s essential to know that your child can be at risk for needing restorative dental work as well. If your dentist recommends a dental filling for your child, it’s crucial to have the treatment completed as soon as possible to protect your child’s smile.
Children develop dental problems, even when their parents stay on top of their oral hygiene and always schedule appointments for preventative care. Learn more about the signs your child may need restorative dental work done and how our team at Total Kids Dental can help.
What is Dental Filling?
A dental filling is used to treat a small hole, or cavity, in a tooth and can be made of porcelain, gold, or silver. Cavities are the most common infectious disease in children due to sugary snacking and poor oral hygiene habits. Left untreated, cavities can spread bacteria and lead to other oral conditions and treatments such as root canals and possibly tooth loss.
Signs Your Child Needs Restorative Dentistry
Cavities start as white marks on the teeth and worsen as the cavity spreads to deeper layers of your child’s tooth. This damage often comes from significant tooth pain and discomfort while eating and drinking.
If your child complains of any of these signs of a cavity, your child should see the dentist so the cavity can be removed and filled:
What to Expect at the Appointment
To repair a cavity, your child’s pediatric dentist will remove the decayed tooth tissue and then fill the space with a filling material. Typically, tooth-colored composites are the best choice for children as are the best aesthetic match and are the healthiest option. The decayed part of your child’s tooth will be removed, and the filling will be placed.
Our team understands that some children require a bit more help to get through dental treatments, especially if the child is afraid or has special needs. When extensive work is needed or the child is very anxious, we offer sedation dentistry options to help kids relax during dental treatments. there are several options available, and we would be happy to discuss sedation and answer your questions.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
After your child’s tooth is treated, you may wonder how long the filling will last. Parents should know that some fillings may last until the ages of six to 13 — when most baby teeth fall out, and permanent teeth grow in. Choosing the right type of cavity fillings for your children helps protect their oral and overall wellbeing by preventing the cavities from progressing and keeping your child’s smile healthy while their adult teeth come in.
Restorative Pediatric Dentistry in Phoenix
At Total Kids Dental, we go above and beyond patient expectations by creating a space where children feel heard, respected, and safe.
Our compassionate dentist, along with our leading and compassionate staff, provide children with the following benefits:
- Gentle & easy-to-understand treatments.
- Honest and personable communication.
- Playful, creative, and interactive atmosphere.
- Bilingual staff ( Farsi & Spanish).
- A trusted team of providers.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Detecting and treating cavities early is crucial in pediatric dentistry. A small cavity is much easier to fill than a large one, and prompt treatment prevents the decay from spreading to other teeth or affecting the tooth's pulp. At Total Kids Dental, our Phoenix pediatric dentists use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify cavities in their earliest stages, ensuring your child receives the most conservative and effective treatment possible.
Preventing Future Cavities
Beyond treating existing cavities, Total Kids Dental is committed to helping your child maintain excellent oral health and prevent future decay. We provide comprehensive preventive care, including:
- Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings: Crucial for monitoring oral health and removing plaque and tartar build-up.
- Fluoride Treatments: Strengthen tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to acid attacks.
- Dental Sealants: Thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to shield them from decay-causing bacteria.
- Oral Hygiene Education: We educate both children and parents on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as the importance of a healthy diet.
Schedule Your Child's Appointment Today
Total Kids Dental is proud to serve families across Phoenix, providing exceptional pediatric dental care in a nurturing environment. If you suspect your child has a cavity or if it's time for their regular check-up, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We are dedicated to helping your child achieve a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.
Contact our team online today or call (602) 610-0338 to schedule your child’s first appointment! Learn more about pediatric dental fillings in Phoenix.