Dental Fillings in Meridian, ID

A dental filling is a restorative procedure used to repair a tooth affected by decay, cracks, fractures, or wear. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed, and the tooth will be filled with a dental filling material. Children benefit from having their teeth filled early to prevent cavities from forming and address any discolored or decayed teeth. Your dentist will essentially “fill” your child’s tooth with a safe material to avoid further decay or discoloration. The filling will be shaped and polished to resemble the child’s natural tooth. It’s quick, easy, painless, and affordable! 

The Procedure for Dental Fillings

• Nitrous oxide is typically used to reduce anxiety and increase a child's ability to cooperate for treatment. 
• The child may receive local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring a pain-free procedure. 
• The dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill, leaving a clean and healthy tooth structure. 
• The composite filling material is applied in layers and shaped to restore the natural contour of the tooth. A curing light hardens the material, ensuring it bonds securely to the tooth structure. 
• The dentist will check and adjust the filling to ensure the child's bite is comfortable and the tooth functions properly. The filling is polished to smooth out any rough edges and provide a natural appearance. 

The Benefits of Dental Fillings for Children 

Treatment of Tooth Decay 

Dental fillings remove decayed portions of the tooth and restore the damaged area. By treating tooth decay with fillings, the progression of decay is halted, preventing further damage to the tooth structure. 

Pain Relief

Tooth decay can cause tooth sensitivity and pain, especially when the cavity reaches the inner layers of the tooth where the nerves are located. Dental fillings eliminate the decayed part of the tooth, alleviating pain and discomfort. 

Preservation of Natural Teeth

Dental fillings help preserve the natural tooth structure by removing the decayed portion and filling the cavity. This avoids needing more extensive treatments like tooth extraction, which can result in gaps or misalignment. 

Prevention of Further Decay

The risk of further decay in that area is reduced by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and sealing it with a filling. The filling is a barrier, protecting the remaining tooth structure from bacterial invasion. 

Parents must encourage good oral hygiene habits in children, including regular brushing and flossing, a healthy diet, and routine dental check-ups. Early detection of cavities and timely placement of dental fillings can help prevent the progression of decay and maintain the child's oral health. For more information, visit Dental Care for Kids at 3235 N Towerbridge Way, Suite #200, Meridian, ID 83646, or call (208) 888-7711.