How Common Are Cavities in Children?
Dental cavities are one of the most common oral health concerns in children, caused when bacteria damage the tooth enamel. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, our board-certified pediatric dentists, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim, offer gentle and effective children’s dental fillings in Lawrenceville, Georgia. We use tooth-colored composite resin for each teeth filling, ensuring the restoration not only repairs and protects your child’s tooth but also blends naturally with their smile.
What are the Benefits of Children's Fillings?
There are many reasons why composite tooth-colored fillings are an excellent choice for children’s dental care. These restorations help stop cavities from spreading while protecting your child’s oral health. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim specialize in children’s dental fillings offering gentle and effective treatment that keeps young smiles healthy. Each teeth filling is carefully placed using natural-looking materials that repair damage while preserving your child’s beautiful smile.
Additional benefits of tooth-colored fillings include:
Preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible
Strengthening and protecting teeth from future damage
Reducing the risk of toothaches, infections, and other decay-related issues
Providing a seamless, natural-looking result without the need for silver or metal fillings
Does My Child Need a Dental Filling?
Tooth-colored fillings are a versatile solution for cavities and other dental concerns. Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim may recommend composite resin fillings when decay has weakened the tooth structure. They can also be used to repair chips, small breaks, or enamel worn down by teeth grinding. Because the material can be matched to the natural shade of the tooth, fillings work well for both front and back teeth, offering a strong and natural-looking result. You can explore more of our pediatric dental services to see how we protect your child’s smile.
How Does a Dentist Perform a Filling on a Child?
Getting a filling at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry is designed to be quick and comfortable. The treatment area is first numbed, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may be offered to help children feel relaxed. For patients with dental anxiety, additional sedation dentistry options are also available.
Once your child is comfortable, Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim removes the decayed portion of the tooth with specialized tools, thoroughly disinfects the area, and carefully fills it with composite resin. A curing light is then used to harden the filling, which is polished smooth and adjusted for proper bite alignment.
How to Care for Your Child’s Fillings
After the procedure, children can return to their usual activities, though some may notice temporary sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Mild discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. If a filling feels uneven or uncomfortable, parents should contact the office so adjustments can be made.
To keep fillings in good condition, daily brushing, flossing, and routine checkups are essential. During each visit, Dr. Kong and Dr. Kim will check the fillings to ensure they are secure and recommend any repairs or replacements if needed. Regular children’s dental cleanings also help protect fillings and maintain oral health.
Does Insurance Cover Children’s Fillings?
Composite resin fillings are considered a standard part of preventive dental care and are usually covered, at least partially, by dental insurance. Our team works directly with insurance providers to confirm coverage and explain any expected out-of-pocket costs.
For families without insurance, Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry offers flexible payment methods and financing plans to make treatment accessible. You can find more details on our patient resources page.
Can Children Get Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Yes. Small cavities can be effectively treated with tooth-colored fillings, which restore strength to the tooth while maintaining a natural appearance. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA, Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim provide compassionate, child-friendly care that helps young patients feel comfortable during treatment.
If you suspect your child may have a cavity, early treatment is the best way to prevent further problems. Contact us to schedule a pediatric dental appointment with Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim today.
Children’s Fillings FAQ
Dr. Jeni takes special care to make sure your child feels safe and comfortable without pain during the entire procedure. Using topical and local anesthetic with nitrous oxide sedation helps to make the experience as stress-free as possible.
While still considered safe and effective, traditional fillings are made with a mix of silver and mercury, which may be hazardous to your health. Composite, or tooth-colored, fillings are made with a composite resin and are considered to be generally safer than traditional fillings.
How long the procedure takes depends on the size and location of the cavity. In general, it typically takes about 30 – 45 minutes to place a children’s filling. This time frame allows the dentist to carefully remove decay and securely place the filling material. Additionally, the duration may vary if the child requires extra care or if multiple fillings are needed.
Yes, it does. One of the major advantages of a composite filling is that it doesn’t change the color of your tooth. The material can be closely matched to the natural shade of your teeth, allowing it to blend seamlessly. This makes the filling virtually undetectable, preserving the appearance of your smile.
Some key tips on having a comfortable, stress-free dental experience for your child include:
- Keep calm, stay composed — your child will key in on your state of mind. If you are nervous, they will be nervous.
- Talk to them — talk to your child and answer questions about the dental visit and what to expect so they won’t be surprised
- Be careful with words — avoid talking about needles, drills, etc. by using kid-friendly terms
- Share — tell your child about times you went to the dentist
- Bring a toy or comfort item — whether it’s a teddy bear or a blanket, a comfort item can make all the difference to keep your child calm
You can help your child prevent cavities by encouraging regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Additionally, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and schedule regular dental checkups to monitor their oral health.