child dentist office smiling after dental fillings

Pediatric Dental Fillings In VA Beach

Restoring Teeth With Cavities

While we aim to educate our patients on practicing good oral hygiene to prevent cavities, sometimes tooth decay happens. The good news is that teeth with cavities can be repaired. Fillings are used to fill a damaged area in a tooth made by a cavity or trauma, preventing further decay and discomfort. When cared for properly, fillings can last for many years, though they will eventually need to be replaced or fixed. At Beach Kids Dentistry, our filling procedure is a painless experience that will help your child’s teeth grow healthy and strong.

Does My Child Need a Filling?

We offer amalgam (silver) and composite resin (tooth-colored) restorative materials. When selecting a restorative material preservation of tooth structure, esthetics and each individual patient’s needs are considered.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are several different types of fillings available. Our pediatric dentists select the material based on the patient’s tooth structure, location, aesthetics and individual needs. Options include the following:

  • Composite Resin: These are made of a resin material that blends in with the natural color of the tooth. They are an aesthetically pleasing option often used for front teeth or more visible areas.

  • Amalgam: These are silver-colored and especially durable.

What To Expect

Our goal is for your child to feel comfortable and calm throughout their filling appointment. We explain every step of the procedure to the patient in ways that your child can understand. First, our pediatric dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth using a local anesthetic to ensure that your child does not feel any pain. We will then remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth and clean the area. After preparing the tooth, our pediatric dentist fills the cavity with the filling material. The filling is shaped and polished to ensure it fits the bite, looks natural and feels good!

After Your Child’s Filling Appointment

After the procedure, some bleeding around the gums is normal, and can occur for up to 2 weeks. To encourage healing, your child should brush and floss their teeth normally. If they experience any discomfort, you can give your child over-the-counter pain medication as needed. Following a soft diet for a few days after treatment can also help with discomfort.

If you have any questions or concerns following your child’s appointment, do not hesitate to contact us. We are always here to help!

How Long Do Fillings Last?

They can last for many years with proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups. However, they may need replacement or repair over time if they wear out, become damaged or if a new cavity develops.Additionally, some types last longer than others.

How Can I Help Prevent The Need For Fillings?

As a parent, you might wonder what you can do to help prevent the need for a filling in the first place. A good way to establish healthy habits is by practicing good oral hygiene with your child at home. Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day and flosses twice a way, and practice parent-assisted brushing until age 8 or 9. Before your baby’s first tooth emerges, brush their gums with a damp, clean cloth, especially after eating, including breastfeeding. You should also bring your child to our office for routine exams and cleanings every 6 months. These regular oral appointments help to keep your child’s teeth clean and healthy and it allows our team to catch any problems, sometimes before they even arise.

Schedule An Appointment with Beach Kids Dentistry

If you suspect your child has a cavity and needs a filling, come visit us! We pride ourselves on delivering care you can trust. To schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentists, simply fill out our online contact form. We look forward to seeing you!

Make a Splash
with Your Smile

Sea The Beach Kids Dentistry Difference

We believe that a lifetime of healthy smiles begins with a positive and fun dental experience. Our kid-friendly office and experienced pediatric dentists are here to provide compassionate, patient-focused and specialized pediatric dental care.

children laughing and running on beach