What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings are used to treat cavities, a common form of tooth decay, as well as some other common tooth problems like minor fracturing or chipping. The filling is used to restore the original structure and function of the tooth so your child’s smile can return to a beautiful and healthy one. There are many scenarios in which a child might need a dental filling in one of their baby teeth, and at Smile Wright Dental, we make the whole process as painless and comforting as possible.

What is the dental filling process?

Just like with adult teeth, baby teeth are filled with a white composite or metal, depending upon preference or what your dental insurance will cover. Our dentist will begin by numbing the area of the tooth so that the whole procedure is pain-free. Next, we remove any area of decay or to smooth out the damaged area. The area is then cleaned to help prevent decay from recurring. Finally, the area is filled in to match the shape of the tooth, and the filling is cured to harden. We will always check the filling for rough areas to ensure the most comfort for your child.

Why do children need dental fillings?

You might think that because they aren’t permanent, baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, don’t need to be filled if they are damaged or have a cavity. At Smile Wright Dental in Xenia, Ohio, we believe oral health is important from day one, and that means taking care of your children’s teeth from the beginning. Baby teeth need to last for several years, and their decay can lead to a lifetime of poor oral health. Primary teeth also help adult teeth grow in properly, so it’s important that they stay healthy.

How will you make my child comfortable during their procedure?

The idea of having a cavity filled can be scary, even for adults. So for our young patients at Smile Wright Dental, we take comfort seriously! We do all we can to make our patients feel safe and secure throughout their dental filling procedure. We offer nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas, to make our patients feel relaxed. Nitrous oxide is a safe nitrogen-oxygen mixture that is inhaled through the nose throughout the procedure and it brings on a relaxed feeling. It is a great option for patients who experience dental anxiety or even dental phobia.

If you think your child might need a dental filling, call us to schedule an appointment.