Dental fillings for kids are a standard procedure that is often performed. While many parents are worried about whether a cavity filling will hurt their children, the truth is that it does not have to be a painful experience. Different types of dental fillings are available for kids, as well as how to make the experience more comfortable
Ways We Can Reduce Pain During A Filling
There is no need for your child to be in pain during a dental filling. The dentist will often start with a numbing gel. This can be applied to the gums before the local anesthetic is given. It will help numb the area and make the process more comfortable for your child.
Next, they will be given a local anesthetic, which will numb the area around the tooth being worked on. Your child may feel a little pressure when the anesthetic is injected, but it should not be painful. There are also distraction techniques used to minimize the sensation of the needle.
Pediatric Dental offices also offer nitrous oxide, more commonly known as “laughing gas”. This can help relax your child and make them feel more comfortable during the procedure. It is safe and will wear off quickly once the dental filling is finished.
Our office is also proud to be able to offer a special compounded topical treatment to help the numbing process, that we source in from our local pharmacies. This allows our dentists to give anesthesia nearly pain free and avoid the typical anticipated pain associated with the usage of needles. Applying numbing with a needle into the mouth region can be scary and nerve-wracking, especially for young children. The poking and prodding of needles to children at a young age can create a trauma response and fear around needles and force them to associate this discomfort with the dentist, making them not wish to go regularly. By minimizing the pain that accompanies needle usage, your children can avoid being extremely uncomfortable and nervous.
What To Expect After Your Child Gets A Filling
After your child has a dental filling, they may feel some discomfort. This is normal and should go away within a few days. The dental office will give you specific instructions on caring for your child’s teeth after the procedure. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that your child’s teeth remain healthy!
How To Prevent Future Fillings
The best way to prevent dental fillings for kids is to practice good dental hygiene. This means brushing and flossing regularly and getting regular dental checkups. In addition, if your child has a cavity, it is vital to get it treated immediately. The sooner the cavity is filled, the less damage it will cause to your child’s teeth!. You can also help to prevent cavities by avoiding sugary drinks and snacks.
Different Types Of Fillings
There are different types of dental fillings that your child can have. The filling that is best for your child will depend on the size and location of the cavity and also the age of your child. At our office, we do not provide “cookie cutter” dentistry, but rather an individualized treatment plan based on your child’s specific needs.
Tooth colored fillings: : They match the color of your child’s teeth and are less visible. These are best suited for irregular and stained teeth or smaller cavities.
Silver fillings: These are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. However, at our practice we do not offer the mercury containing silver fillings for children. We do offer alternative silver fillings. They are not as common as they used to be because they are not as aesthetic.
If your kids have any pain or discomfort in their mouth, it is important to take them to the dentist. For example, cavities can cause many problems for kids if they are not treated immediately. Dental fillings are a standard and safe procedure that can help restore your child’s teeth to good health! At Around The World Pediatric Dentistry, we want to ensure that if your child requires a filling that it is carried out correctly and in a manner that is comfortable for them. You can request an appointment online or call (203) 489-2112.