When a cavity appears, your child deserves treatment that keeps their smile healthy and natural-looking. At Smiley Dental Group, Dr. Holowicki, Dr. Moore, and Dr. Renshaw provide gentle, compassionate care for young patients who need dental fillings.
Our tooth-colored composite resin fillings blend beautifully with your child’s natural teeth, restoring strength while protecting against further decay. Families across Columbus, Dublin, and Hilliard trust our team to make every visit calm, positive, and comfortable.
Why Fillings Are an Important Part of Dentistry for Kids
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play an essential role in helping permanent teeth come in properly. When tooth decay weakens a tooth, leaving it untreated can cause further damage, discomfort, or even infection.
A pediatric dental filling repairs the tooth and prevents future problems while preserving your child’s ability to chew, speak clearly, and practice good oral hygiene. Early treatment also helps your child avoid more complex procedures later on, such as crowns or root canals.
Why Kids Typically Need Dental Fillings
Cavities can form at almost any age, from toddlers with primary teeth to older children with adult teeth. Tooth decay develops when bacteria and plaque break down the enamel, and without timely care, the problem can spread quickly.
Your child’s pediatric dentist may recommend a dental filling to stop decay, restore tooth strength, and protect surrounding teeth. Treating cavities early supports your child’s oral health and keeps their smile bright for years to come.
Composite Filling (Posterior)
Natural-Looking Results with Tooth-Colored Fillings
Today’s pediatric dentistry offers advanced, aesthetic solutions. Composite resin fillings, also called white fillings, bond directly to enamel for a seamless finish that matches the color of your child’s natural teeth.
Unlike older amalgam fillings or silver fillings, composite resin creates a smooth surface that feels natural and resists further decay. These fillings are durable enough for everyday chewing while remaining gentle on surrounding enamel and gums.
What to Expect During the Filling Appointment
Your child’s comfort always comes first. Before treatment begins, the area is numbed with local anesthesia to prevent discomfort. Our dentists gently remove the decayed portion of the tooth, then layer and shape the composite material before curing it with a special light.
The result is a restored child’s tooth that looks and feels completely natural. For children who feel anxious, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can be used to help them relax during the visit.
Benefits of Composite Fillings for Kids
Choosing tooth-colored fillings offers many benefits, including:
By treating cavities early, you protect your child’s oral health and help them maintain confidence in their smile.
Caring for Your Child’s Smile After a Filling
After the appointment, mild soreness is normal as the anesthetic wears off. This usually fades quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
To protect their filling and maintain a healthy mouth, encourage your child to:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss gently once a day
- Avoid sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours
- Visit our office regularly for cleanings and exams
With proper dental care, composite fillings can last until the baby tooth naturally falls out and the permanent tooth takes its place.
Compassionate Dental Care for Kids in Columbus
At Smiley Dental Group, we make children feel safe, supported, and proud of their smiles. Our team provides the highest standard of pediatric dental care, helping every child develop healthy habits and confidence in the dental chair.
If your child has a cavity or tooth decay, we’re here to help. Call 614-889-0726 or book online to schedule your child’s visit today. We’ll help you make an informed decision and protect your child’s smile for the future.