Getting dental fillings for kids can help improve your child’s dental health. It can restore the affected teeth and relieve your child’s pain. Understanding the process can help you prepare your child for the next appointment. Here are the details on what parents like you must know about dental fillings for kids.
The different types of fillings
The dentist will discuss every type of dental fillings for kids. Understanding each of them will enable the parent to know the benefits of each. Deciding which of the filling types can benefit the child the most will follow. The following are the available types of dental fillings for kids to choose from:
- Composite resin fillings can match the child’s natural tooth color. These restorations can blend well with the rest of the neighboring teeth.
- Ceramic and porcelain fillings look natural. These fillings are tooth-colored and stain-resistant.
- Amalgam fillings are strong and durable. These restorations are affordable. Proper care and maintenance can make them last for at least a decade.
Before the procedure
The child may feel anxious about getting dental fillings for kids. That is why preparing the child for the procedure is important. Explaining the process using kid-friendly words can help them understand what will happen. Positive reinforcement can also relieve any of the child’s worries.
The dentist will examine the child’s tooth on treatment day. This will allow the dentist to see which teeth have cavities. Dental X-rays can show the dentist the extent of the decay. The dental staff will then begin preparing the components for applying dental fillings for kids.
The procedure
Giving dental fillings for kids is a quick process. The dentist will numb the area first. This will ensure that the child is comfortable. Grinding away the decayed area will follow. The child will hear some noises and feel a little pressure, but the treatment will be painless.
The dentist will clean, disinfect, and roughen the area. This will allow the filling material to stick better to the tooth. Applying the dental filling will follow. A curing light will harden the dental fillings for kids. The child will feel a little warmth from the light, but there will be no discomfort at all. The dental fillings for kids will last from five to 10 years if the dentist applies them on permanent teeth.
Rinsing the mouth will follow. This will refresh the child’s mouth. The local anesthetic will last for up to 12 hours after getting the dental fillings. Mild discomfort should not last for more than one day.
After the procedure
Remind the child to floss and brush as gently as possible. There will be mild sensitivity, which is normal. The child should be on a soft diet for a while. This will lower the stress level on the child’s treated teeth. Make sure that the child is well-hydrated. This will help with the tooth’s healing.
Encourage the child to communicate any issue. This will allow the parent to call the dentist right away if necessary. Bring the child in for follow-up visits. These appointments will enable the dentist to keep an eye on the dental fillings.
Understanding dental fillings for kids can give your child a positive experience at the clinic
It could be your child’s first time getting dental fillings for kids. The experience may be both exciting and stressful. Make sure to explain everything that your child needs or wants to know. Working with your dentist can make your child’s dental fillings last for years.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
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