Cavities are common in children, but thanks to modern, tooth-colored fillings, restoring their smile is quick, easy, and comfortable. If your child needs a filling, you might be wondering how long the procedure takes. Most pediatric dental fillings are completed in under an hour, sometimes even faster!
At Carousel Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we aim to make every visit stress-free and positive. As a trusted pediatric dentist in Apple Valley, we specialize in gentle, kid-friendly care to ensure your child feels comfortable throughout treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
Find Pediatric Dental Fillings at Our Dental Office
Filling a cavity is a simple and painless process. Here’s what to expect:
- Exam and X-Rays — First, we examine your child’s teeth and take x-rays to pinpoint the cavity’s size and location.
- Numbing the Area — A small amount of numbing gel and local anesthesia ensures your child stays comfortable.
- Removing Decay — Using special tools, we gently remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
- Placing the Tooth-Colored Filling — A composite resin material (matched to your child’s natural tooth color) is applied in layers and hardened with a special light.
- Polishing and Final Check — We shape and smooth the filling to feel like a natural tooth and ensure they have a comfortable bite.
How to Detect and Prevent Cavities
Cavities don’t always cause pain right away, so regular checkups and cleanings are essential. Signs of a cavity include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Pain when chewing
- Visible brown or white spots on teeth
The best way to avoid cavities altogether is through preventive dental care in Apple Valley:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to clean between teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Visit your pediatric dentist every six months for checkups and sealants.
Call Our Pediatric Dentist in Apple Valley To Schedule
At Carousel Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re committed to keeping little smiles cavity-free. If your child needs a filling or a preventive checkup, schedule an appointment today. We make dental care easy, fun, and stress-free!
We welcome kids of all ages, and we look forward to caring for their smiles!