Fillings

A dental filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay or injury. The dentist removes decayed tissue, cleans the area and restores the tooth's shape with a filling material. This restoration stops decay from spreading and helps the tooth function normally.

Fillings can be placed in primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth depending on the situation. Modern materials bond to tooth structure and support strength while preserving more natural tooth tissue. For pediatric patients we select materials that balance durability with a child-friendly appearance.

A child may need a filling when a cavity has formed in a tooth. Common signs include sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing, or visible dark spots or holes in a tooth. Dentists confirm cavities with a clinical exam and often with X-rays to assess the depth and location.

Early detection makes fillings simpler and less invasive, so routine checkups are important. Untreated decay can progress to infection or require more extensive treatment like a crown or extraction. Regular preventive care helps reduce the need for restorations.

The most common option for children's fillings is composite resin, a tooth-colored material that bonds to enamel and dentin. Composite is aesthetically pleasing and allows conservative preparation because it adheres to the remaining tooth. It's suitable for visible teeth and many posterior restorations when placed carefully.

For very small cavities or in areas where moisture control is difficult, dentists may use glass ionomer, which releases fluoride and bonds chemically to tooth structure. Glass ionomer is often chosen for younger children or for restorations near the gum line. It is less wear-resistant than composite but offers preventive benefits.

In some cases, especially for back primary molars with extensive decay, a stainless steel crown or other full-coverage restoration may be recommended instead of a filling. These crowns protect the whole tooth surface and reduce the risk of repeat decay. Your child's dentist will recommend the best material based on the tooth, extent of decay, and expected lifespan of the primary tooth.

Mercury-free composite and glass ionomer materials are widely used in pediatric dentistry and are considered safe for children. These materials do not contain elemental mercury and are biocompatible for routine restorative care. Their safety profile has been supported by dental organizations and long clinical experience.

Choosing mercury-free options allows parents to avoid concerns associated with older amalgam fillings while maintaining effective decay control. These materials also offer cosmetic benefits by matching the tooth color and minimizing the appearance of restorations. If you have specific material concerns, discuss them with your child's dentist so they can explain the options.

A filling visit typically begins with an exam, necessary X-rays and a discussion of options with the parent or guardian. The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic or use nitrous oxide when appropriate to keep the child comfortable. Gentle behavior guidance helps children cooperate during the procedure.

After numbness is achieved, the dentist removes the decayed tissue, shapes the cavity and places the chosen filling material. The material is then cured or set, adjusted for bite and polished so it feels smooth. Most fillings are completed in a single appointment and children can resume normal activities shortly after.

Local anesthesia and behavior techniques are used so children do not feel pain during the actual filling procedure. Dentists check for complete numbness before starting and communicate with the child throughout to reduce anxiety. For very anxious or special-needs patients, additional sedation options may be discussed.

It is common for a treated tooth to feel sensitive for a few days after the filling as the nerves recover from the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by your dentist and soft foods can ease discomfort during healing. If pain worsens or sensitivity persists beyond a week, contact your dentist for an evaluation.

To care for a new filling, encourage twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing to keep the surrounding tooth structure healthy. Avoid very hard or sticky foods for 24 hours if the filling was recently placed to allow full set and polish. Maintaining a balanced diet low in frequent sugary snacks helps prevent new cavities.

Regular dental checkups allow the dentist to monitor the integrity of fillings and address any wear or recurrent decay early. Sealants, fluoride treatments and improved home care can extend the life of restorations on children's teeth. Good oral hygiene habits established early support long-term dental health.

The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used, the size and location of the restoration, and your child's oral habits. Composite and glass ionomer fillings can last many years in primary teeth but may wear sooner in high-stress areas or with heavy grinding. Regular monitoring at dental visits helps detect signs of wear or failure.

Fillings may need repair or replacement if they fracture, if decay develops at the margins, or if the tooth undergoes further treatment. Pediatric dentists typically recommend follow-up X-rays and exams at routine intervals to evaluate restorations. Timely care helps preserve tooth structure and avoid more extensive procedures.

Several options reduce anxiety and make filling appointments more comfortable for children, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation and behavior guidance techniques. Nitrous oxide is commonly used in pediatric dentistry because it is safe, fast-acting and quickly reversible. The dental team tailors the approach based on the child's age, health and level of anxiety.

For children with special needs or severe dental fear, the dentist may recommend additional sedative options or coordinate care with an anesthesiologist for more extensive treatment. Communication with parents about expectations and the chosen sedation plan ensures safety and comfort. The office follows protocols to monitor the child before, during and after any sedative procedure.

At Myers Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our pediatric dentists use gentle techniques and child-focused communication to make fillings easier for families. We select mercury-free, age-appropriate materials and tailor treatment plans to each child's needs and developmental stage. Our team emphasizes preventive strategies to reduce future decay and support long-term oral health.

We also provide thorough follow-up care and education so parents know how to protect restorations and maintain healthy habits between visits. If concerns arise after treatment, our staff will evaluate the tooth and recommend timely care to preserve the smile. Choosing a pediatric practice ensures experience with children's behavior, growth patterns and restorative choices.