Cavities are one of the most common dental issues pediatric dentists treat. Left untreated, cavities can lead to tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth loss.
Pediatric dental fillings play an important role in restoring decayed teeth and protecting your child’s oral health.
We offer pediatric dental fillings at our pediatric dental office in Southwest Ranches, FL.
Key Takeaway
Treating cavities promptly with pediatric dental fillings can prevent discomfort, protect your child’s oral health, and preserve their smile.
Understanding Cavities
Cavities, also known as dental decay or caries, form when food particles and bacteria combine to produce acids that erode tooth enamel.
Poor oral hygiene habits, sugary diets, and irregular dental care can all contribute to the development of cavities. In their early stages, cavities may appear as white or dark spots on the tooth surface. As they progress, they can create visible holes in the tooth.
If cavities are not treated, they can worsen, causing tooth pain, sensitivity, and infections. An untreated cavity can also affect neighboring teeth, leading to bigger problems.
Addressing cavities early is essential for maintaining your child’s oral health and preventing more invasive procedures like root canals or tooth extractions.
What Are Pediatric Dental Fillings?
Pediatric dental fillings are a restorative dental treatment used to repair a decayed tooth.
During the dental procedure, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and replaced with a durable filling material. This restores the natural appearance of the tooth, strengthens it, and prevents further decay.
At Akoya Pediatric Dentistry, we offer two types of pediatric dental fillings:
- Composite Resin Fillings
- Glass Ionomer Fillings
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored so they blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Anesthesia and Sedation: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area and ensure your child is comfortable during the procedure. For anxious patients, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may also be offered to help them relax.
- Preparation: The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the surface of the tooth is cleaned to ensure the composite resin adheres properly.
- Application: The composite resin is placed in layers into the cavity.
- Curing: A special light is used to cure the composite resin, making it strong and durable.
- Shaping and polishing: Once cured, the filling is shaped and polished to match the natural tooth.
Composite resin fillings are a popular choice for restoring front teeth and visible areas of the mouth because they blend naturally with the surrounding teeth.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are another type of tooth-colored filling material. They release fluoride, which helps strengthen the tooth enamel and protect against future cavities. Here is the process for applying glass ionomer fillings:
- Anesthesia and sedation: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area and ensure your child is comfortable during the procedure. For children with dental anxiety, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may also be provided to help them relax.
- Preparation: The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the surface of the tooth is cleaned and dried to ensure proper adhesion.
- Conditioning: A mild acidic solution may be applied to the tooth to prepare it for the filling material, improving bonding.
- Placement: The glass ionomer filling material is carefully applied into the cavity and shaped to fit the natural contours of the tooth.
- Setting: The filling hardens through chemical curing, bonding to the surface of the tooth to ensure a secure and lasting restoration.
- Finishing touches: The filling is smoothed and polished to ensure comfort, function, and a natural appearance.
Glass ionomer fillings are a practical choice for primary teeth or areas with lighter chewing forces. They release fluoride, which helps strengthen the tooth enamel and provides long-term protection against future cavities.
Composite Resin Fillings vs. Glass Ionomer Fillings
| Feature | Composite Resin Fillings | Glass Ionomer Fillings |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Matches the natural color of teeth for a seamless look | Tooth-colored, but less polished than composite resin |
| Durability | Long-lasting and suitable for high-stress chewing area | Best for primary teeth or areas with lighter chewing forces |
| Fluoride Release | Does not release fluoride | Releases fluoride to strengthen and protect enamel |
| Best For | Used in permanent teeth, ideal for front teeth and visible areas | Used in primary teeth and as a temporary filling in low-stress areas |
Both composite resin and glass ionomer fillings are effective options for restoring decayed teeth, with each type offering unique benefits tailored to your child’s needs.
Do Cavities in Baby Teeth Really Need Fillings?
Yes! Even though primary teeth eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in your child’s oral health and development. Treating cavities in baby teeth prevents pain, maintains proper spacing for permanent teeth, and supports speech development. Left untreated, cavities in baby teeth can spread to neighboring teeth or lead to infections.
Protect Your Child’s Oral Health with Expert Care
Pediatric dental fillings are an essential part of maintaining your child’s healthy smile. By addressing cavities early, we can prevent discomfort, preserve natural teeth, and support proper oral development.
Our team at Akoya Pediatric Dentistry is committed to providing gentle, effective care tailored to your child’s needs.
Book an Appointment
Schedule a Dental Exam Today!
Akoya Pediatric Dentistry is always accepting new patients! We are conveniently located in the Coquina Plaza just off Sheridan Street in Southwest Ranches, FL.
We are proud to serve families in our community and help children maintain healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Southwest Ranches, FL, call (954) 799-6212. Akoya Pediatric Dentistry proudly serves patients from Broward County, including Southwest Ranches, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Miramar, Cooper City and Plantation.
FAQs About Pediatric Dental Fillings
Are fillings the only treatment for cavities?
No, fillings are not the only treatment option for cavities. In some cases, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can be used as a noninvasive treatment to stop the progression of small or medium cavities. SDF is particularly helpful for young children or patients with dental anxiety, as it doesn’t require drilling or anesthesia. However, while SDF can halt decay, it does not restore the function or appearance of a decayed tooth, which is why fillings are often recommended for a more complete restoration.
What are the signs my child might need a dental filling?
Look for signs like mild tooth pain while eating, sensitivity to hot or cold, visible dark spots on teeth, or complaints of discomfort when chewing.
Are pediatric dental fillings safe?
Yes! Modern fillings, including composite resin and glass ionomer, are safe, effective, and designed with your child’s health in mind.
Are cavities preventable?
Yes, cavities are preventable with consistent oral hygiene habits like brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and scheduling regular dental checkups. Fluoride treatments and a balanced diet low in sugar also play a key role in protecting teeth and preventing decay.
