As a parent, you don’t want to see your little one suffering. But when a cavity arises, discomfort usually follows. So, what do you do when it is in a baby tooth? Most parents are hesitant to move forward with a filling, especially since a baby tooth will eventually fall out. Is it really necessary? Can it cause any harm?
All of these feelings and questions are understandable—your child’s health and safety are of utmost importance. Rest assured that modern dental fillings are safe and highly effective at protecting the decayed tooth and those around it.
This article explores why fillings are so important, the materials that are used, and why treating baby teeth early can give oral health a boost.
Why Do Baby Teeth Need Fillings?
Many people assume that baby teeth aren’t that big of a deal since they don’t stick around very long. But they do play a significant role in your child’s oral health and development. For instance, they allow children to fuel their bodies by being able to chew their food, as well as develop proper speech and pronunciation.
Baby teeth also hold space for permanent teeth, ensuring that they can grow in and be properly aligned. And they do this as they support the teeth around them. When one is removed, others can begin to shift—opening up the potential for oral health issues and orthodontic care. If cavities are left untreated, the child will experience early tooth loss thanks to extensive decay and infection.
Perhaps most importantly, you don’t want to see your child suffering from pain or infection. A simple filling is all that is required to avoid all of these unwanted situations. The tooth will be protected, the decay cleared away, and your child’s smile will remain strong and healthy.
Are Fillings Safe?
Yes, dental fillings are absolutely safe for children, both the procedure and the materials used.
You always want to make sure that your child’s dentist comes with high recommendations and the right skills. Most dentists will perform fillings at least once each day (usually more), since it is such a very common, routine procedure.
As for the materials that will be used for the filling, this can vary. Silver amalgam fillings have been used for decades, but often leave parents asking questions due to their trace levels of mercury. Not to mention that they stand out and lack aesthetic appeal. Today, modern fillings are made of a tooth-colored, composite resin that is both mercury-free and BPA-free. They are long-lasting, highly effective, and blend beautifully with the rest of the teeth.
At Orange County Pediatric Dentistry, we do everything we can to ensure the comfort and the safety of our young patients, every step of the way—including the materials we use and the procedures we perform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do to reduce the risk of future cavities?
Good oral hygiene habits are essential. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing once, limiting sugary drinks and foods, and visiting the dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. Not only will this reduce the risk of cavities, but it will also improve your child’s oral health.
Will the filling fall out when the baby tooth falls out?
Yes, the restoration is bonded to a specific baby tooth. So, when it begins to loosen naturally and falls out, the filling will go with it.
At Orange County Pediatric Dentistry, our experienced pediatric dental team provides gentle, personalized care in a relaxed environment. This is designed to keep kids at ease, whether they are coming for a preventive checkup, a filling, or an orthodontic treatment. Think your child has a cavity? Schedule an appointment today.