We Treat Cavities and Minor Tooth Damage with Pediatric Dental Fillings

“Your child has a cavity” is one of the hardest things a pediatric dentist has to tell a parent. Sometimes, you already know it, while at times, you are taken off guard. Whatever the circumstances, these words can weigh you down and leave you feeling guilty and uncertain about the next steps.

Good news! If the cavity is small, your child only needs a traditional filling to repair the damage and prevent it from progressing. Simply Kids Dental in Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers composite fillings to restore teeth with cavities or minor tooth damage. Known as composite resins, these materials are commonly used on visible front teeth to maintain a natural appearance.  Composite fillings are created from tooth-colored resin, a great alternative to unsightly silver fillings. White fillings not only restore your child’s

How are pediatric fillings placed?

We understand your little one can be nervous when receiving a filling. Before we begin treatment, we’ll ensure they are comfortable. We achieve this by numbing the tooth with local anesthetics to block pain signals. Nitrous oxide also benefits most children if your child is nervous or can’t sit still in the dental chair.

Once your child is comfortable, we’ll gently remove the decayed or damaged portion, leaving as much of the enamel intact as possible. Then, we’ll clean the area thoroughly to remove all traces of harmful bacteria. Next, Dr. Vostatek will fill your tooth with composite material before hardening it with a special light.

Finally, we’ll reshape and resize the filling until the bite looks and feels natural. Your child can now show their beautiful, cavity-free smile and eat their favorite foods without pain and sensitivity.

What are the benefits of composite fillings?

We understand children prioritize aesthetics just like you do. Instead of silver fillings that often show a metal appearance in the mouth, composites can be shaded to mimic the surrounding teeth for beautiful results. This way, your child can speak, smile, and eat without worrying about an unsightly metallic appearance.

The other benefits of white fillings include:

  • Conservativeness: We’ll remove a small amount of the tooth structure to place a white filling, preserving more of the natural tooth enamel.
  • Better bonding: Composites bond chemically with the tooth structure, providing a strong and long-lasting restoration that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
  • Versatility: Composite resin is durable and aesthetically appealing, making it ideal for both front and back teeth.
  • Safety: Unlike metal fillings, composites do not contain toxic substances harmful to your child’s health. Composite is BPA-free and biocompatible, providing a safe solution for smile restoration.
  • Durability: White fillings can last many years with proper care and maintenance.

How are pediatric fillings cared for?

Although white fillings are strong and durable, they need proper maintenance to last many years. Good news! Caring for dental fillings is similar to maintaining natural teeth. Ensure your child brushes and flosses their teeth daily. Watch out for your child’s dietary choices, limiting their intake of sugary and acidic foods.

If your child grinds or clenches their teeth, talk to us for a personalized mouthguard. Lastly, ensure your child visits our office every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. With diligent maintenance, pediatric dental fillings can last five-plus years.

Is a dental filling a good option for kids?

Dental fillings are a conservative way to preserve baby teeth while restoring their function and aesthetics. If you’d like to learn more about pediatric tooth fillings in Colorado Springs, CO, call (719) 249-2030 to talk to Dr. Sean Vostatek and his team.