Does Your Child Need a Filling?

The dental team at Sunnyside Dentistry for Children in Clackamas, OR specializes in treating dental ailments that are common in young children. One dental issue that frequently affects children is cavities and tooth decay. The treatment for cavities is dental fillings. Know when your child needs a filling and what you should both expect at your next dentist appointment.

What Is a Filling?
A filling is a dental treatment that covers up tiny holes in your tooth enamel. It is done in conjunction with a cavity cleaning in young children. Any decayed matter is taken out of the tooth before the filling material is applied to the surface. Without a cleaning and filling in the beginning stages of decay, a tooth can become seriously infected. If you want your child to keep all of his or her teeth well into adulthood, have those cavities treated early.

Does Your Child Need Fillings?
It can be difficult to see a tiny cavity on a child’s tooth. Unfortunately, the first sign is usually a sensation of pain when the child bites down on food or a piece of candy. If you inspect the tooth closely you might see a small dark spot on the enamel. If you want to catch a problem before it becomes painful, see your Clackamas dentist every six months for dental checkups and cleanings. The dentist will do a visual inspection and use a special tool to check the surface of the teeth for potential cavities. 

Easing Your Child’s Worries
Some children are very afraid of going to the dentist, which is understandable. They are nervous about the sound of drills and dental pain. Ease your child’s worries by letting them know that sedation will be used before and during the procedure. You can discuss these sedation options, including nitrous oxide and numbing fluid, with your dentist in advance.

Protect Your Child’s Smile
Going to the dentist is probably not your child’s favorite pastime, but it’s still important to have cavities detected and treated as soon as possible. Call Sunnyside Dentistry for Children in Clackamas, OR at (503)-855-5100 to schedule a visit with Dr. David Doyle.