Pediatric Fillings in Washington, DC
Here at Pearson Pediatric Dentistry, we are proud to offer fillings to our patients. Fillings are one of the most common ways we restore a child’s tooth after a cavity or minor break, so kids can keep eating, speaking, and smiling comfortably.
Request an AppointmentDental fillings are used to treat different dental problems like cavities and broken teeth. Teeth are usually filled with a material called composite resin, which is designed to look like natural teeth. Fillings can also be done with gold, porcelain, or silver amalgam depending on the situation and your child’s specific needs.
Composite resin takes a little longer to place, though most families still prefer it because it creates natural-looking teeth that blend in seamlessly. It’s applied in more than one layer, and a special light is used to harden the material around the filling as we go.
Before your child gets a filling, they will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth so the procedure is as comfortable as possible. We then clean away the decayed part of the tooth so it’s ready to be filled. In some cases, we’ll apply glass ionomer to protect the tooth and nerve underneath. Once the tooth is filled, we smooth over the rough edges and polish it so it feels and looks natural. For children who feel nervous about the process, we also offer nitrous oxide sedation to help them relax.
The amount of time it takes to fill a tooth varies based on the extent of the damage, and the cost may increase the longer the filling takes. Regular cleanings and exams are the best way to catch cavities early, before a filling becomes more involved.
If you have any questions about fillings or think your child may need one, please contact us today at (202) 889-5200.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Fillings
How do I know if my child needs a filling?
Signs your child may need a filling include visible dark spots on a tooth, sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain while chewing. A routine exam can also catch cavities before symptoms appear.
Are fillings painful for children?
We use a local anesthetic to numb the area before placing a filling, so most children feel little to no discomfort during the procedure itself.
What material do you use for children’s fillings?
We most often use composite resin because it matches the natural color of the tooth, though gold, porcelain, or silver amalgam may be used in certain situations.
How long does a filling take?
Filling time varies based on the size and location of the cavity, but most pediatric fillings can be completed in a single, relatively short appointment.
Will my child’s filling need to be replaced later?
Fillings in baby teeth are generally designed to last until the tooth naturally falls out, while fillings in permanent teeth can last many years with good home care.
Can nitrous oxide be used during a filling?
Yes, we offer nitrous oxide sedation for children who feel anxious about dental procedures, helping them stay calm and comfortable throughout the filling.
How can I prevent my child from needing more fillings?
Regular cleanings and exams, good brushing and flossing habits at home, and limiting sugary snacks all help reduce the chances of future cavities.