Does Your Child Need a Dental Filling?

Posted November 8, 2016

Has your generally easygoing son or daughter recently become extra fussy around dinnertime? In fact, during any meals does he or she complain, lately, about not enjoying the food, even when the fare is his or her favorite? Complaints related to tooth sensitivity or even discomfort while chewing, are actually common warning signs of dental decay, a condition that affects approximately 30 percent of school-aged children. Fortunately, a pediatric dentist can help your child rebound from dental caries, or cavities as they are more commonly called, so that you and him or her can start enjoying family time, and your meals together, once again.

Do You Know the Symptoms of Dental Cavities?

It is helpful, as a parent and a dental patient oneself, to know the most common symptoms of dental cavities. That way, you can increase the chance of catching a cavity early on in its development, when minimally invasive treatment, like a dental filling, should likely be able to save the tooth.

For instance, deep discoloration, like grey or black lines, and even bright white patches on the surface of the teeth, can often be indicators of acidic erosion, which has left parts of the tooth beneath the enamel exposed. In many cases, cavities also cause sensitivity, discomfort, or even downright dental pain. Some patients find it is particularly difficult to enjoy hot or cold items, or those filled with sugar, because of the interior of the tooth’s reaction to these kinds of elements.

Seek Treatment Quickly to Prevent Worsening Issues

Again, when detected early, most cavities can be treated with dental fillings. For kids, most pediatric dentists recommend stainless steel fillings, which are sturdy enough to protect a baby tooth from further erosion, and to prevent discomfort moving forward.