Dental Fillings | Cavity Treatment For Kids

Dental caries, or tooth cavities, is the most common childhood disease in children. To treat a cavity, our pediatric dentist may place a dental filling. Your child's filling works to prevent additional tooth decay and allows the affected tooth to function as it normally would.



Children commonly experience cavities, even if they have good oral hygiene and a healthy diet. Dental fillings for children are often a quick and easy procedure, although there are a few additional factors to consider. We can discuss any necessary accommodations for your child during their visit.

What Does the Filling Procedure Look Like? 

  • Depending on the size and location of the cavity, we may need to numb the tooth in order to prevent any discomfort or sensitivity. With the use of numbing gel, nitrous oxide, and movies to distract, numbing the tooth can usually be done quickly and painlessly! Certain cavities might not even require anesthetic at all.
  • After the area is effectively numb, our pediatric dentist will remove the affected or decayed portion of the tooth.
  • When the tooth has been properly cleaned and prepared, a white filling material is placed and cured with a blue light.
  • To complete the procedure, our pediatric dentist will polish the tooth and ensure your child's bite is functioning properly.

  • Recovering After A Dental Filling

    Most children recover very quickly and without any complications. As the anesthetic effect begins to wear off, your child's tooth might experience some slight discomfort or sensitivity. You can limit tooth sensitivity by following these steps:


    • gently brushing and flossing around the filling
    • avoiding hot or cold foods and beverages
    • asking your child's dentist about the possible use of pain medication like Tylenol of ibuprofen

    Inform our pediatric dentist if your child's bite feels misaligned or if they experience any extensive pain or sensitivity.

  • Pain Following A Dental Filling

    When the filling is completed, your child may experience slight discomfort in the area near their dental work for a few hours. If needed, they can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or ibuprofen.


    Anesthesia usually wears off completely in two to three hours, and your child might feel a tingling sensation as their nerves regain their normal function.

  • How To Know If You Need A Dental Filling

    Routine dental check-ups allow your child's pediatric dentist to identify a cavity early, which will allow for more conservative intervention. Symptoms of a possible cavity include:


    • Tooth sensitivity with hot or cold foods and beverages
    • Sensitivity to sugary foods and beverages
    • Throbbing or aching discomfort in a tooth
    • A visible hole or pit within a tooth

    If you believe that your child has a cavity, please schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentist immediately. They will confirm whether your child requires a filling or another form of treatment.