What Happens When a Child Gets a Filling?

Many children can be worried or scared if they are told that they need to get dental fillings due to having cavities. Parents as a result, may second-guess themselves on if they truly need the procedure done. Although no parent wants their child to have to undergo any dental procedure that might frighten them or cause discomfort, leaving a small cavity persist can mean more extensive dental work later. This delay also can increase both the time to correct the issue and drive up overall costs.

However, going to a compassionate and highly trained pediatric dentist can alleviate anxieties for both parent and child, especially if can get an outline on what exactly goes on in treatment. In this article, our pediatric dentist in Bellevue, WA provides a general outline for what parents can expect for a child needing pediatric dental fillings.

What Type of Medication Will Be Used for Fillings?

Typically pediatric dentists will apply numbing topical medication and deeper numbing injections to prevent discomfort and pain. If needed, your pediatric dentist will also administer oral/conscious sedation via a gas that is inhaled through a simple oxygen mask. The combination of both relaxes the child and helps  ease any fears. However, it is first important to discuss your child’s particular circumstances to your dentist so that a solid plan can be formed for your child’s circumstances.

At Art of Pediatric Dentistry in Bellevue, WA, Dr. Yu Ong has years of experience in dealing with younger children and teens. Dr. Ong will ensure that your child gets the time and necessary attention that they need to feel comfortable about the process prior to the start of the procedure and that their treatment plan is right for them.

What Type of Filling Will My Child Get?

A dental filling is typically crafted out of a composite resin material. This is usually shaded to match the color of a childs natural teeth making the filling less noticeable. In the past, fillings for back teeth were often made from stronger and harder metal materials that were more noticeable. Due to recent advances in dental care, the newer dental filling composites are stronger and can be just as effective than the less desirable older filling materials.

What Happens When a Child Gets a Filling?

Once it is determined that pediatric fillings are needed, your dentist will first providing your child with a local anesthetic so that the procedure is comfortable and stress-free. The decay is then removed from the tooth using a slower speed drill. Once all the decay is removed, the small hole that was created in the tooth is prepped for the filling material. The composite resin is both placed and poured into the small hole and smoothed. The filling is then cured with a specialized curing light The entire process generally takes 1 visit, so your child can go home and enjoy the rest of their day!

At Art of Pediatric Dentistry, we also believe in the importance of preventative care. Dr. Yu Ong will also take the time to explain to both parents and children some considerations and tips to prevent cavities. By doing this, children will be less likely to need to get more fillings in the future!

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist Near You?

If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced pediatric dentist near you, consider scheduling with Art of Pediatric Dentistry! Our pediatric dental office in Bellvue, WA is experienced in providing exceptional and gentle dental care for children throughout King County and the surrounding neighborhoods. Dr. Yu Ong is committed to making sure that your child not only gets the treatment that they need but that they also thrive after their appointment. We take the time to explain to children and parents on ways to maximize their oral health.

Schedule your next appointment by calling our friendly staff at (425) 401-1147!

You may also reach us by using our online form or swinging by our office. We are located near Stevenson Elementary School and the Los Chilangos restaurant. We are also open from Mondays through Thursdays from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and take appointments on Friday.