Tooth decay is the most common dental problem that affects children, so a children's dentist spends a large share of their time treating tooth decay. Fluoride treatments can be used to treat the first stage of decay: the demineralization stage. However, dental fillings are needed once cavities start forming on the tooth.
Think your child might need dental fillings? Let us go over the answers to some of the questions you might have:
The first step is to assess the severity of the decay. This will be done by taking x-rays and/or using a special dental instrument called an explorer to check for cavities. If the decay is found to be in its early stages, a fluoride treatment may be all that is needed. However, dental fillings will be necessary if the decay has progressed to the point where cavities have formed.
The most common dental filling used for children is a composite (tooth-colored) filling. Composite fillings are made of a resin material that can be matched to the color of your child's teeth. It is made from mixtures of plastic and glass. This type of filling is less noticeable than other types of fillings and can be used on both front and back teeth.
Another type of dental filling used for children is an amalgam (silver) filling. Amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, copper, tin, and mercury. While amalgam fillings are not as popular as they once were, they are still an option for children who need them. The decision of which type of dental filling to use is based on several factors like the location and seriousness of the decay, the child's age, and the child's personal preference.
The first step is to anesthetize the area around the tooth so the child will not feel any pain during the procedure. Once the area is numb, the pediatric dentist will remove the decay from the tooth and clean it out. The next step is placing the filling material into the cavity and shaping it. Once the filling is in place, it is hardened with a special light.
After the filling is placed, your child may complain about increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days. This is typical and should go away within a week or two.
With appropriate care, dental fillings can last for over five years. Brushing regularly and seeing a children's dentist for regular checkups are essential, so any problems with the filling can be caught early.
Do not hesitate to contact our office to set up an appointment with our pediatric dentist if you think your child may need a dental filling.
Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Childrens Dentist in Richmond, TX.
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