If your child develops a cavity, a dentist must fill the affected tooth to restore it. Getting a filling can be stressful for kids, especially if they haven’t experienced it before. As a parent, you can ease your child’s concerns by preparing them for the procedure. Use this guide to understand the treatment and required aftercare.

What to Know About Getting Cavities Filled

What is the process for filling a tooth? 

Before the procedure, the dentist numbs the affected area with a local anesthetic. Once the medication takes effect, they use a drill, abrasion instrument, or laser to remove the decayed part of the tooth.

After the site is clear, the dentist cleans the pit and fills it with a composite resin. After using ultraviolet light to harden the material, they polish the resin to smoothen out any rough edges. 

Is the treatment uncomfortable? 

Your child won’t feel any discomfort due to the numbing agent applied to the area. Many dental offices also offer nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to help patients relax during the filling process. This is a safe and effective anesthetic that the child inhales through a mask before the procedure.

What should I do after the appointment? 

Your child may experience dental sensitivity to heat, cold, and sweetness in the first few days after the filling. Pressure from eating hard foods may also cause some discomfort.

This sensitivity typically disappears within a couple of days, but keep your little one comfortable by giving them soft foods that don’t contain much sugar, such as mashed potatoes and rice. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be helpful. If the sensitivity doesn’t subside within a couple of weeks, contact the dentist for a followup appointment.

How should I help my child care for a filling?

Ensure they follow basic oral hygiene guidelines to prevent new cavities. They should brush twice a day and floss daily, use fluoride toothpaste, and visit the dentist for biannual checkups. If your child mentions roughness or discomfort in the treated site, visit the dentist to have the filling checked. 

For gentle children’s dental care, trust the professionals at La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry in Wisconsin. Their knowledgeable and child-friendly team has over 10 years of experience in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Hanks has extensive training and helps even the youngest of patients feel comfortable. Learn more about their services online, or call (608) 782-4054 to schedule an appointment.