What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Filling Appointment

As a parent, hearing that your child has a cavity can be concerning, but rest assured, cavities are quite common and entirely treatable. At Songbird Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that you might have questions about what to expect during your child's dental filling appointment. This blog post aims to guide you through the process step by step, ensuring you're well-informed and at ease as your child receives the best care possible.

Diagnosis: Confirming the Cavity

The first step in addressing a cavity is confirming its presence and understanding its extent. Our experienced pediatric dentist, Dr. Breanna Barnes, will perform a thorough examination using:

• X-rays: These provide a detailed view of your child's teeth, helping to identify any hidden decay.
• Visual Exam: A careful inspection of the teeth to spot visible signs of cavities.

Once the cavity is confirmed, Dr. Barnes will discuss the extent of the decay with you, explaining the necessary steps to restore your child's dental health.

Choosing the Right Filling Material

Choosing the appropriate filling material is crucial for both the functionality and aesthetics of your child's teeth. At Songbird Pediatric Dentistry, we offer:

• Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings: These are popular for their natural appearance and are often recommended for visible teeth.
• Amalgam Fillings: While less common, they may be used for back teeth due to their durability.

Dr. Barnes will discuss the benefits of each option and recommend the best choice based on your child's specific needs and the location of the cavity.

Numbing the Area

To ensure your child's comfort during the procedure, the affected area will be numbed using local anesthesia. This process is explained simply to your child to alleviate any fears. For children who may experience anxiety during dental visits, optional sedation is available. You can learn more about our sedation options by visiting our sedation blog.

Removing the Decay

Once the area is numbed, Dr. Barnes will gently and efficiently remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This is done using specialized dental tools designed for precision and comfort:

• Dental Drill: Used to carefully remove the decayed area without affecting the healthy tooth structure.
• Hand Instruments: These ensure any remaining decay is meticulously cleaned out.

Throughout the procedure, we prioritize your child's comfort and ensure they feel at ease.

Schedule Your Child's Appointment in Fairview

At Songbird Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care for your child. If you're in Fairview and your child needs a dental filling or any other pediatric dental services, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Call (615) 544-5541 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Breanna Barnes and give your child the gift of a healthy, happy smile!