How Do They Fill a Cavity in a Child’s Tooth?

Dr. Khuong Nguyen

November 11, 2022

Dr. Khuong Nguyen

There are a few ways to fill a cavity in child’s tooth. They may use Amalgam, composite resin, or nitrous oxide. However, whatever the method, it is important to get the cavity filled. The cavity is an opening for bacteria that can spread to other teeth if it is not treated.

Amalgam

Amalgam is a silver-coloured substance that dentists use to fill cavities in children. It is made of mercury and tin and is a popular filling material. It is cheap and durable and offers good sealing properties. this is also easy to apply to moist teeth. Despite concerns regarding mercury poisoning, scientists have found Amalgam to be safe for children.

Amalgam has been used for more than 100 years. This type of dental filling has a high success rate. However, it is not recommended for all patients. If your child has a large cavity, your pediatric dentist may suggest other filling materials, such as composite fillings. In addition, some people are allergic to the metal in Amalgam and should avoid the procedure.

Although mercury has been linked to health problems in patients, the FDA and other health agencies have largely downplayed the health risks associated with amalgam fillings. But a nonprofit network of dentists, scientists, and other health professionals is researching the safety of dental products.

Composite resin

Composite resin fillings are used to repair cavities in children’s teeth. This material bonds directly to the enamel of the tooth, meaning it doesn’t need to be attached to the tooth with adhesives or undergo extensive modification. Once placed in a cavity, composite resins are hardened with a special light. Afterwards, the dentist shapes and polishes the completed filling to ensure it blends in seamlessly with the child’s tooth.

Composite resin fillings are a safer alternative to amalgam fillings. They contain no mercury and do not require the removal of the tooth’s structure. They are also durable, helping prevent cavities from progressing. Additionally, they help reduce tooth sensitivity, stop toothaches, and make the child more comfortable during the procedure. For the best results, pediatric dentists recommend that parents closely monitor their child’s diet to prevent cavities and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Composite resin fillings for children are a simple procedure. In most cases, the procedure can be completed in one appointment. The dentist will assess the child’s teeth to choose the correct colour of resin. After that, they will use a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and make the entire process painless. Once the composite resin is ready, the dentist will then remove the damaged part of the tooth.

Dental crown

Dental crowns are tooth-like covers that are put over existing teeth to restore their shape, size, and strength. They also protect the damaged tooth from further decay. Your child’s dentist may recommend a dental crown if a cavity is large or deep. Crowns are available in several colours and materials, so you should always have your child tested for any allergies before making a final decision.

A dental crown is often the best solution to save a child’s tooth from extraction. Extracting a tooth isn’t only painful for a child, but it can also expose him to germs that can infect his permanent teeth. Plus, most children find the procedure quite challenging and will become agitated.

A child’s dentist will use a special drill to remove decay from the tooth and shape it for optimal crown placement. The crown must fit snugly over the tooth. Stainless steel crowns are then polished, filled with cement, and pressed over the tooth. Once the crown is in place, the dentist will rinse the child’s mouth to remove excess cement and debris.

Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide is an inhalation medication that can be used to reduce a child’s anxiety and discomfort during a dental procedure. The gas is a mild sedative and can be used for small cavities and moderate treatment needs. The sedation effect lasts about five minutes. Children may experience tingly sensations or shivering. They may also experience a slowed reaction time or difficulty with motor control. However, these side effects usually wear off within a few minutes.

Although the process is not without risks, the sedative properties of nitrous oxide help make the procedure less traumatic for children. The gas is safe for patients of all ages, and most dentists provide it to their patients as a light sedation option. However, if a child is especially nervous, deep sedation may be necessary.

Nitrous oxide has been used for dental procedures for over 100 years. It does not affect the heart, liver, kidneys, or brain and is non-invasive. The sedative gas also has no odour and does not interfere with a child’s normal breathing. This type of gas is also commonly referred to as “laughing gas” because it makes children more relaxed during dental procedures.