Children's Fillings in Lawrenceville, GA

Dental cavities are a common oral problem among children that develop when bacteria erode tooth enamel. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA, board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Jeni Kong uses tooth-colored fillings made with composite resin to fill cavities and protect damaged teeth.

There are many reasons why tooth-colored fillings are beneficial for children. Our professionals know that fillings are crucial for preventing further decay. They also allow Dr. Jeni to restore and protect damaged teeth while still preserving the appearance of their smile. Additional benefits include:

• Preserve natural tooth structure
• Strengthen and protect teeth from further damage
• Reduce the risk of toothache, infection, and other issues associated with decay
• Provide a natural-looking smile without resorting to silver or metal fillings

Dr. Jeni uses composite resin tooth-colored fillings to restore and rebuild tooth structure damaged by decay. Composite resin is a versatile material that may be used to treat other issues with your child's teeth, such as chipped teeth, broken teeth, or enamel that has been worn down by bruxism (teeth grinding). Since the material is tinted to blend with the surrounding teeth, tooth-colored fillings may be placed on the back and front teeth for a natural-looking appearance.

Receiving a filling at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry is typically an easy process. The treatment area will be numbed to help your child feel comfortable. Often times, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is administered to help relax the child and to provide a comfortable experience. Sedation techniques may also be used in addition to nitrous oxide to help your child feel more relaxed during the procedure if they have any fears, anxieties, or other concerns. Once your child is ready, the decayed enamel can be removed using a unique dental drill that Dr. Jeni will choose based upon the location of the cavity and the amount of decay. Once the decay is removed and the tooth structure disinfected, Dr. Jeni will fill the tooth with composite material and set the filling with a special light. She will then polish and smooth the filling and check your child's bite for comfort.

Your child can resume normal daily activities once the tooth-colored filling is complete, but they may notice a sensitivity to cold and hot food and beverages for a few days. You can give your child nonprescription pain relief medication to address any discomfort; however, they shouldn't experience any serious problems. If your child reports that the filling seems uneven when biting down, please call us so that we can get them back in to adjust the bite. Your child's filling should be cleaned by following a regular home care routine that includes daily flossing and brushing. During your child's annual dental exam, Dr. Jeni will check the filling to determine if it should be replaced or repaired.

Composite resin fillings are a standard treatment for dental cavities that are typically covered, at least in part, by insurance. A team member will talk to your dental insurance company to understand your child's coverage so we can calculate any personal cost. If your child does not have dental insurance, our knowledgeable staff will go over the payment methods accepted by our office and can provide information on medical financing.

Why does a child need a dental filling?

Dental fillings are done to repair the affected tooth and stop the spread of tooth decay to other healthy teeth. Even if the cavity is in a baby tooth, it is necessary to treat the decay to keep it from spreading or causing a tooth infection.

Does getting a children's filling hurt?

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.

Are tooth-colored composite fillings safer than regular fillings?

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 does it take to get a children's filling?

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.

Does a composite filling look natural?

Yes, it does. One of the major advantages of a composite filling is that it doesn't change the color of your tooth.

How can I prepare my child to go to the dentist?

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

Dental cavities are common occurrences, but it is crucial to have them treated before they develop into larger oral health concerns. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA, small areas of tooth decay may be treated with tooth-colored fillings. Dr. Jeni will make sure to match the shade of your child's teeth to create a seamless, healthy grin. If you think your child may have tooth decay, contact us today to schedule a dental exam with Dr. Jeni.