Children's teeth are still developing, and their mouths are constantly changing. Pediatric dentists take this into consideration when placing dental fillings in young patients.
Simply put, a pediatric dental filling is a dental treatment specifically designed for children. It is used to address dental issues such as dental caries (cavities), as well as chipped or cracked teeth. The process typically involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and applying a filling material to seal the cavities. By doing so, pediatric dental fillings help alleviate tooth pain and restore the health of children's teeth. With the expertise of dentists and the use of gentle techniques, pediatric dental fillings ensure that children can maintain their vibrant smiles and enjoy good oral health.
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One of the most significant benefits of dental fillings is their ability to halt the spread of cavities from one tooth to another. When left untreated, cavity-causing bacteria can easily move from tooth to tooth, causing extensive damage. However, dental fillings play a crucial role in combating this issue. By disinfecting the infected tooth and sealing the cavity, they effectively prevent the spread of any remaining bacteria. This not only safeguards the neighboring teeth but also promotes overall oral health by eliminating the potential for further decay.
Dental fillings also offer a remarkable advantage by improving the structure of teeth that have been hollowed out by cavities. Decay weakens the affected tooth, compromising its integrity and functionality. However, with the application of dental fillings, the decayed tooth can regain its strength and functionality.
Beyond their functional benefits, dental fillings can also have aesthetic advantages. They can effectively conceal discoloration caused by tooth decay, restoring a more natural and uniform appearance to the affected tooth. Additionally, dental fillings can address tooth sensitivity, which often indicates an underlying infection. Dentists can eliminate the infection, and then utilize a dental filling to protect the sensitive nerves, providing relief and restoring comfort to the patient.
The dental filling process starts with a comprehensive examination of your teeth and oral cavity. The pediatric dentist in Valencia might take x-rays to determine your suitability for dental fillings. If suitable, they’ll inject local anesthesia into the gums surrounding the affected teeth. This numbs the nerves for a painless procedure.
The dentist will use a drill, air abrasion equipment, or laser to remove the decayed portion of your tooth and clean the tooth to prepare for filling. Right after, the dentist applies a mild acidic gel to etch the surface of the tooth. This increases the surface area of adhesion to the filling material.
Based on the size of the cavity and other factors, the dentist will then choose an appropriate filling material (composite resin and amalgam). The dentist will apply layers of the filling material on the cavity, using a special light to harden the filling after each application. The dentist checks your bite and makes necessary adjustments before releasing you.
No, dental fillings aren’t painful since dentists use a local anesthetic to numb the pain. Patients will still feel pressure and movement while under anesthetic but no pain. Common anesthetics used for dental filling include epinephrine and lidocaine. Dentists might use a combination of anesthesia and sedation for patients with dental anxiety.
Your child may need fillings if they complain of tooth pain or sensitivity when they drink cold and hot beverages. Fillings are also necessary if your child’s teeth show visible signs of dental decay like dark spots and holes in the teeth. You should also arrange for dental filling if your child chips or cracks their teeth. This is especially true if the chips or cracks extend to the tooth’s root, creating a passage for bacteria to the pulp.