Tooth Filing for Children
Tooth Fillings for Children
At The Kids Dentist, we prioritize restoring the health of children’s teeth when we detect cavities, using safe, durable, and effective restorations.
Types of Fillings for Children’s Teeth
Tooth fillings for kids are specially designed to bond with the tooth structure, minimizing the need for extensive drilling and reducing treatment time. We primarily use two types of materials for restorations: glass ionomer and composite resin.
We ensure that our fillings are bioactive and BPA-free, providing both strength and a natural appearance.
Understanding Filling Options
1. One-Surface Fillings: These can be applied to either a front or back baby tooth, utilizing glass ionomer or composite materials.
2. Two-Surface Fillings: If a cavity affects two surfaces, particularly between teeth, it may cause sensitivity. In such cases, we often recommend a crown, as a filling may not hold effectively.
3. Three or More Surface Fillings: For cavities involving three surfaces or more, a crown is generally advised to ensure stability and longevity.
Preventive Care
Regular six-month check-ups are essential for preventing tooth decay, assessing the integrity of existing fillings, identifying any new decay, and maintaining your child’s oral health.
Treatment Choices for Fillings
When deciding on treatment, we consider whether the cavity is shallow or deep. For deeper fillings, we use a two-layer approach. The inner layer contains calcium hydroxide, which protects the nerve and prevents irritation.
Alternatively, we may use Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), which helps arrest cavities but can darken the decayed area. When feasible, we prefer tooth-colored fillings made of composite resin or glass ionomer for aesthetic reasons.
Why Children Need Fillings
Fillings are most often necessary due to tooth decay, which has been on the rise due to increased sugar intake in diets. Other reasons for needing a filling may include:
Trauma or dental emergencies
Improper tooth development
Following a root canal treatment
Significant tooth discoloration
When to Consider Extraction
While we aim to treat cavities, there are instances where extraction may be necessary. We assess factors such as how close the tooth is to falling out and the overall condition to determine the best course of action.
Our Approach to Fillings
As pediatric dentists, we specialize in treating children, ensuring they receive the best care tailored to their needs. We’ll discuss our recommendations with you and choose the most suitable method for treatment, whether that’s using laughing gas for comfort or performing the procedure under general anesthesia if required.
Cost of Fillings
Costs for fillings can vary based on individual situations. After your child’s initial consultation, we will provide a clear understanding of the treatment options and associated costs.