Visiting the dentist regularly will prevent issues like cavities in both adults and children. However, if your child gets one, they will need a filling to prevent further dental decay. If your little one is undergoing their first filling, they may be anxious about the procedure and ask you many questions. To help you answer them to appease your child, here’s a guide to some of the common questions about cavities and fillings. 

5 Dental Filling FAQ 

What are cavities?

Cavities are typically dark-colored holes on the surface or between teeth. They’re usually painful. Decay, caused by harmful bacteria that eat away at a tooth, can result in one. If it isn’t addressed, it will get bigger and lead to more discomfort.

How do you get them?

They tend to happen when food particles linger on teeth. This attracts bacteria that form cavities. Brushing, flossing, and regular teeth cleaning can reduce your chances of getting them.

Why do you need fillings?

Dental fillings use different types of materials to plug cavities. In doing so, they restore the tooth’s size and shape and prevent the decay from spreading. Dentists may use metal materials in back molars because they are strong, but not as natural-looking. Tooth-colored fillings, made of composite resin, are typically used in visible areas because they blend in seamlessly.

What is the process like?

Before filling the cavity, the dentist may apply a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. Once the area is numb, they’ll clean the hole of the cavity and insert the filling material in the area to seal it.

What happens during recovery?

If you’ve had anesthesia, you may need to wait to eat or drink until the feeling is restored. This is to prevent injury while chewing. You may also experience slight discomfort after the procedure and be sensitive to hot and cold foods and liquids for a few days. Over-the-counter pain medications can alleviate soreness. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day, as well as visiting the dentist every six months for cleanings, will help prevent recurrence. 

If you need a family dentist in the Flathead County area, turn to Parkway Family Dental in Kalispell, MT. This caring team provides a range of services in their state-of-the-art facility to keep your smile healthy. Whether your child needs their first filling or you want a teeth cleaning to prevent cavities, they will help. Learn more about what they do on their website or call (406) 752-2372 to schedule an appointment.