Help Your Child Avoid the Need for a Tooth Filling

Posted November 19, 2020

The best reason to help your child optimize their dental hygiene routines and stick to a schedule of checkups and cleanings is to avoid the development of potentially serious problems with their oral health. Tooth decay, the condition that leads to cavities, is one of more common of these problems, and many children may need to have a filling placed in one of their teeth because of it. While a conservative filling can help save your child’s tooth from a cavity, the better option is typically to avoid the need for a tooth filling by preventing the development of a cavity in the first place.

When a tooth filling is necessary

A tooth filling is recommended when your child develops a cavity, which is a depression in the tooth structure that’s caused by a case of decay (or tooth infection). Cleaning and filling the cavity in its early stages can stop it from growing more severe and eroding more of your child’s tooth structure. The formation of a cavity can be marked by different symptoms, including growing sensitivity in your child’s tooth. If this occurs, or if your child’s dentist notices the early stages of a cavity during their routine checkup, then a tooth filling might be the best option for restoring and saving your child’s tooth.

Keeping your child’s teeth safe from cavities

Filling a cavity as soon as it develops is the best way to address it if one develops. However, you can help your child prevent cavities altogether by helping them practice better dental hygiene at home and ensuring they visit the dentist on a regular basis. The development of tooth decay and cavities is the result of excessive bacteria (or plaque) buildup on your child’s teeth. With good dental hygiene every day, they can control this buildup and reduce the risks of cavities developing.

When your child’s teeth need extra protection

While good dental hygiene and consistent preventive care can improve your child’s chances of preventing cavities, children sometimes a need a little extra help in keeping their smiles healthy. For example, if your child’s tooth enamel grows weak, then a cavity may still be prevented with treatment to fortify their tooth enamel. This may include the application of fluoride to the surfaces of their teeth, which interacts with their tooth enamel to make it stronger. Your child might also benefit from dental sealants, which provide an extra layer of protection for their teeth against harmful oral bacteria.

Learn more about protecting your child’s smile

Tooth fillings are common because cavities are, too. This means you can help your child avoid the need for a filling by helping them prevent cavities more successfully. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX today at 214-321-4880. We proudly serve patients who live around Casa Linda and all surrounding Dallas communities.