Bacteria is the main culprit of tooth decay. If your child has higher than average cavity-forming bacteria, they’ll be at a higher risk for developing decay. However, bacteria aren’t the only problem. It’s also important to focus on what’s feeding the bacteria — namely, carbohydrates.
Harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches in the mouth, creating digestive acids that damage the outer tooth enamel. Over time, harmful bacteria damage teeth and create cavities.
Patients with cavities will require fillings to preserve the enamel and prevent future damage to teeth. At Children’s Dental Specialties, we provide pediatric dental fillings as a pediatric dentistry service for young patients in Worcester, MA.
Signs of Dental Cavities
Common signs of dental cavities can include:
- Visible holes or pits in teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to temperature and pressure
- Bad breath
- Brown or white spots on teeth
- Tooth pain and discomfort
If you notice any of these signs in your child, please contact our office for an appointment. We will examine their smile and may recommend a pediatric root canal or filling if we find signs of tooth damage.
Pediatric Dental Fillings in Worcester, MA
We will start the dental filling process by administering any necessary anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Once your child is numb, we’ll use a variety of methods to remove the decay, which can include hand instruments, a handpiece, or in some cases, a dental laser. Your child will not feel any pain during treatment due to anesthesia or lasers used throughout the process.
After we remove the decay, we condition the tooth. Then, we apply an adhesive, followed up by the soft, composite resin (tooth-colored plastic) filling material. We will place the material into the tooth and shape it. After that, we cure and harden the resin with a blue light. At the end of the appointment, we will check your child’s bite and make any necessary adjustments.
Dental Fillings FAQs
Learn more about children’s dental fillings in Worcester, MA, with answers to these common questions:
Is it common for baby teeth to need fillings?
Yes, it is common for baby teeth to need fillings if they have cavities. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play an important role in helping children chew, speak, and keep space for adult teeth.
If a cavity in a baby tooth isn’t treated, it can cause pain, infection, or damage to the adult tooth underneath. Fillings can fix the cavity and protect the tooth until it’s ready to fall out naturally.
Are tooth-colored fillings available for children?
Yes, tooth-colored fillings are available for children. These fillings are made from a material called composite resin, which can be matched to the natural color of your child’s teeth. They are a popular choice because they blend in and look more natural than metal fillings.
Do fillings hurt?
Fillings don’t hurt because we will numb the area around the tooth. This makes the procedure comfortable and painless. Your child might feel some pressure while our dentist works, but it shouldn’t hurt.
After the numbness wears off, the tooth might feel slightly sore or sensitive for a day or two, but this is normal and should go away quickly.
How do I know if my child has a cavity that needs a filling?
You might notice a few signs if your child has a cavity that needs a filling. Some common signs include:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity when your child has something hot, cold, or sweet.
- Visible holes or dark spots on your child’s teeth
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing.
- A chipped or cracked tooth.
How do I prepare my child for their dental filling?
To help prepare your child for their dental filling, talk to them calmly. Let them know that they will be getting a filling to help their tooth feel better. Explain that the dentist will make sure they feel comfortable.
Tell your child that the dentist will clean the tooth and fix it by putting in a special material that helps keep the tooth strong. Make sure to reassure them that the dentist and the team are there to help.
Try not to make the appointment sound scary. Use positive words like “It will be quick and easy” to help reduce any anxiety. Also, if your child has a favorite toy or blanket, you can bring it to their visit to help them feel more relaxed.
What should I do if my child’s filling falls out?
If your child’s filling falls out, call our dentist as soon as possible. Our dentist will likely want to fix it quickly to prevent the cavity from getting worse. In the meantime, make sure your child avoids chewing on the affected tooth to prevent further damage. If your child feels pain, give them an over-the-counter pain medicine.
How old does my child have to be to get a filling?
There’s no specific age for getting a filling—it depends on when your child develops cavities. Most children get cavities around age 5 or older, but some may need fillings earlier if they have dental problems. Our dentist will decide when a filling is needed based on the condition of your child’s teeth.
Are fillings safe for children?
Yes, fillings are safe for children. The materials used in fillings are designed to be safe and effective for kids. Dentists use materials like tooth-colored resin or silver fillings, and they are carefully placed to make sure they don’t harm your child’s tooth or health. If you have concerns about the type of filling, you can always ask our dentist to explain the options.
Request a Dental Appointment
Have you noticed changes in your child’s smile? Do you think your child has a cavity? Call our office for a cavity filling at (508) 625-5534. You can also feel free to schedule a dental visit online. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns; we’re here to help.