Dental Fillings Can Improve Small Smiles

Posted February 23, 2022

As a parent, many of your efforts surrounding your child’s oral health have to do with getting them to brush their teeth. This is essential, but we also know that it can be a struggle; some children simply don’t enjoy a habitual brushing and flossing regimen. One of the main reasons we encourage our kids to take good care of their teeth — and to visit the dentist regularly —  is to prevent cavities. In fact, this holds true for adults as well; cavities are one of the more common oral issues that one can have, but they are also one of the most treatable. With this in mind, for today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist discusses cavities and their most typical course of treatment: dental fillings.

What Exactly Is A Cavity?

We hear the word “cavity” mentioned a lot, but many might not know exactly what they are. They are one of the most common types of tooth decay. They typically develop from lifestyle choices, like the consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages. Genetics also play a role in how susceptible your child is to them. If you are trying to prevent cavities from developing in your child’s mouth, try to limit their intake of sugary foods and encourage them to brush and floss their teeth. 

There are different types of tooth decay, but the most common is known as coronal cavities. These are found on chewing surfaces and between teeth. Root cavities are another kind, and these are found in the roots of teeth and most commonly occur when the gum line recedes. Because decay can worsen over time, it is crucial to treat it as soon as possible before more serious damage can happen. With this in mind, we encourage you to bring your children in for checkups and cleanings every six months. By continually inspecting their teeth, we can stay on top of any potential issues before they evolve and worsen. 

How We Treat Tooth Decay

If a cavity does happen to develop, we will most likely suggest your child receive a dental filling. For this procedure, their dentist will carefully remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill in the space with a tooth-colored composite that is made from a synthetic acrylic-resin material. Because we prioritize the comfort of all of our patients, the area will be completely numbed prior to the procedure. If necessary, we can also provide mild dental sedation to keep your child comfortable and at ease. Once the procedure is done, the tooth will feel totally normal, even with the new filling inside of it.

Contact Us To Learn More About Dental Fillings

If you have any questions about cavities or this procedure, please do not hesitate to reach out. Contact your Dallas, TX pediatric dentist, Dr. Marr, by calling (214) 321-4880. We look forward to seeing you and your family and helping everyone achieve the healthiest smiles possible.