Dental fillings are one way for a pediatric dentist to address a cavity that has formed in a tooth. But many kids have questions about what to expect when getting white tooth fillings in their smiles. Our team at Simply Kids Dental, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, can demystify the process of obtaining fillings by breaking it down into five simple steps!

1. Consultation and evaluation appointment. First, Dr. Sean and his team will schedule a consultation and evaluation appointment for your child. During this appointment, he examines your child’s teeth and determines if they are suitable candidates for white dental fillings before moving forward.
2. Discuss treatment options. After the evaluation, Dr. Sean discusses the treatment options available for your child’s specific needs. This might include other types of restorations depending on the location and severity of the cavity. He will determine if your child may need a ceramic white crown placed over the top of the tooth afterward if the filling is rather large and impacts the natural tooth’s structure. This crown will provide extra strength and protection following the treatment.
3. Preparation for the filling procedure. Before the filling procedure, Dr. Sean prepares your child for what to expect during the appointment. This might include explaining the steps involved in the procedure in kid-friendly verbiage and answering any questions or concerns your child may have. He and his team might also discuss options for sedation dentistry or numbing techniques to help your child feel more comfortable during the procedure. For young children, distraction techniques such as watching movies or listening to music are available and can help keep them calm and relaxed.
4. The filling procedure. During the filling procedure, our team first numbs the area around the affected natural tooth using a topical anesthetic gel and then administers a local anesthetic injection. This will ensure that your child does not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. After your child is fully numb, we gently remove any decayed part of the tooth using a dentist’s drill or any other specialized instrument. The affected area will then be thoroughly cleaned to ensure no bacteria or debris remains. Next, a filling material like composite resin will be used to fill the cavity and restore the natural shape and function of the tooth. Our team carefully molds and shapes the filling to match your child’s natural tooth color and contour. Once the filling is in place, it is hardened using a special light or chemical process. This ensures the filling stays firmly in place and provides long-lasting protection for your child’s tooth.
5. Post-treatment care. Once the filling is complete, Dr. Sean will instruct your child on how to care for their newly restored tooth properly. Your child needs to avoid eating or drinking anything until the anesthesia has worn off completely. This will prevent them from accidentally biting their cheek or tongue. Your child should also be mindful and avoid any sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours after the filling is placed. This gives the filling time to bond and harden to the tooth fully.

Call Simply Kids Dental today to learn more about pediatric dental fillings in Colorado Springs, CO!

Our team is here to help you and your family with oral health and wellness! Call (719) 249-2030 to request a visit to 1910 Vindicator Drive, Suite #103, for an appointment with our pediatric dentist, Dr. Sean.

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