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Dental fillings for children

In this article, we discuss the important topic of dental fillings for children. Children’s primary teeth are very vulnerable to food and dental diseases. For this reason, filling damaged teeth is one of the common ways to improve and maintain the oral health of children.

What is meant by tooth filling?

Dental filling is a procedure in which the decayed or damaged parts of the tooth are removed and their place is restored with a filling material. This process allows the natural arch and shape of the tooth to be preserved and prevents the development of further infections.

Why do children need fillings?

Children’s teeth are more sensitive to dental diseases. Factors such as improper nutrition, poor oral and dental hygiene, as well as sweets and sugary drinks, can cause the production of harmful acids that continuously destroy the minerals of the teeth, resulting in tooth decay and decay.

Types of fillers for children

Amalgam

Amalgam filling material is one of the oldest methods of tooth restoration for children. This type of substance consists of a combination of mercury, silver, tin, and copper and has been used by doctors for decades. One of the advantages of amalgam is that it can withstand the pressure and friction of the mouth and is usually used for larger teeth.

Composite resin fillers

Composite resin fillings are very popular for children. This type of filling consists of a plastic resin material and reinforcing minerals that have a tooth-like color and match well with the teeth. This is a good choice because it looks natural and effectively prevents further indentation.

Glass ionomer fillers

Glass ionomer fillings are also a common option for children. This type of filling consists of a combination of glass ionomer and polyacrylic acid. One of the advantages of this type of filling is that it allows the teeth to absorb minerals such as fluoride and calcium from it and helps to make the baby’s teeth softer.

Stainless steel dental veneers

Stainless steel dental veneers are one of the types of dental restorative fillings. This type of crown is made of stainless steel metal and is used as a temporary solution for children’s teeth, especially in cases where there is a need to preserve the space of permanent teeth.

Ceramic fillings

Ceramic fillings are made of the same material as teeth and look very natural. This type of filling is suitable for front teeth and is usually used to restore visual effects and change the color of teeth.

Tooth filling method for children

Dental examination and X-ray

Dental fillings for children begin with an oral examination. The pediatric dentist evaluates the teeth by performing an oral examination and X-ray images and determines which teeth need fillings.

Anesthesia and regional anesthesia

To avoid any pain and discomfort, before the filling, the area of the child’s tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic. This makes the child feel no pain and easily tolerates the steps of tooth filling.

Remove decay

After completely numbing the area, the dentist removes the decayed parts of the teeth using special tools. After this step, the area will be ready for filling.

Placement of fillers

The doctor chooses the appropriate filling material to fill the area and sticks it to the child’s tooth. The filling material is then carefully molded into the shape of the teeth to maintain the natural arch of the tooth and reduce the need for re-filling.

Pay and finalize filling

In the final step, the pediatric dentist polishes the filling area so that its surface is smooth and flawless. This work leads to a better dental formation and a more natural appearance for the teeth.

Caring for children’s dental fillings

Compliance with oral hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is very important for children’s filled teeth to function properly. To have healthy teeth, you should brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes and use an antiseptic mouthwash.

Regular dental checkups

One of the most important measures to maintain the health of children’s teeth is periodic visits to the dentist. These visits allow the doctor to examine the teeth and detect filling problems early.

Dietary recommendations

Proper nutrition plays a very important role in maintaining the health of children’s teeth. Limiting the consumption of sweet and sugary foods and using healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables is better.

Benefits and risks of dental fillings for children

benefits

Repairing and improving the health of damaged or damaged teeth

Preventing continued tooth decay

Natural appearance and beauty of teeth

Risks and complications

The possibility of sensitivity to the filler

Falling or broken filling in some cases

When should children have their teeth filled?

When a child’s tooth is damaged or damaged and natural restoration cannot repair it, there is a need for dental fillings for children. Also, if the doctor determines that it is necessary to fill the damaged area, the tooth should be filled to prevent further damage.

Preparing children for dental fillings

Communication and confidence

Before filling, explain to the child how the process is done and why it is necessary. Communicating with the child and reassuring him can reduce worries and fears and allow him to experience this issue calmly.

Distraction techniques

Using distraction techniques can help the child to be calm enough. You may use interactive games, stories, or videos to distract the child from the filling process.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can dental fillings be avoided for children?

Dental fillings are necessary for children when the teeth are damaged or decayed and cannot heal naturally. If the dentist decides that filling the damaged area is necessary to prevent further damage, filling the teeth cannot be skipped.

  • Is tooth filling painful for children?

Usually with the use of local anesthesia, the tooth filling process for children is very painless and without discomfort. The pediatric dentist in Ottawa explains to the child that this procedure is painless and that the child should be patient for complete relaxation.

  • How long is the durability of teeth-filling materials in children?

The life of filling materials for children depends on the type of filling and the way of dental care. Typically, resin composite fillings for children’s teeth can last up to 5 years or more.

  • Can children eat normally after filling?

Yes, children can eat normally after filling. However, it is better to avoid eating hard foods or things that may damage the teeth on the day of the filling.

  • Are there alternatives to dental fillings for children?

In some cases, when a child’s tooth decays, a filling may not be the right choice. In such cases, the dentist can use other options and restorative methods.

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