
When it comes to your child’s dental health and developing smile, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. One common topic that often arises is dental fillings for children. As parents, you want the best for your kids. But sometimes, there are misconceptions about treating primary (baby) teeth and whether it’s important or not. Our Brighton dentists are happy to provide you with all of the resources needed for your family to enjoy healthy smiles for life!
Pediatric Dental Fillings in Brighton, CO
Dental fillings play a crucial role in maintaining and preserving your child’s teeth. Both in regard to treating tooth decay and protecting other teeth in your child’s mouth.
Fillings are typically the first line of defense to treat cavities. Decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that eats away at the tooth enamel, leading to small holes or cavities.
If left untreated, cavities can worsen over time and may result in pain or infection. Untreated decay can result in severe abscesses and cavities in the adjacent teeth due to the spread of bacteria. And if the teeth fail altogether, it can jeopardize eruption patterns and jaw growth.
Our dentists in Brighton screen for tooth decay during every pediatric dental exam we perform. That way, we can place smaller fillings designed to fill the cavities and prevent further decay, allowing your child to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
Dental Filling Cost in Brighton
One of the first questions parents often have is what the cost of dental fillings is for their children. The cost of dental fillings in Brighton, as in many other places, can vary depending on several factors, including the type of filling material used and the severity of the cavity. Smaller fillings are less expensive than larger fillings, crowns, or pulpotomies.
It’s also important to think of the long-term investment. Untreated cavities can lead to more extensive dental problems such as premature tooth loss, impacted adult teeth, crowding, orthodontic needs, and even life-threatening infections requiring hospitalization in some cases. Treating cavities early with dental fillings can help your child maintain a healthy and confident smile.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
Another common question parents have is about the longevity of dental fillings. Dental fillings are designed to be durable and long-lasting. However, their lifespan can vary depending on several factors, including oral hygiene and diet. A high intake of sugary foods and drinks, or processed carbs, can encourage new decay to form around existing fillings.
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental fillings can last for many years. Ultimately, our Brighton dentists want the fillings in baby teeth to last until it’s time for those teeth to fall out naturally. It’s essential to encourage your child to brush and floss daily, as well as bring them in for regular cleanings and fluoride treatments.
Can Dental Fillings Be Replaced?
Yes, dental fillings can be replaced when necessary. Over time, older fillings may begin to leak or have new cavities form around them. Although they can last for several years, they don’t last forever. At Kids City Dental we routinely monitor your child’s teeth and dental work, so we can intervene as early as necessary. Failing to replace broken or leaky fillings can predispose a child to unnecessary infections or painful dental emergencies.
Schedule Your Child’s Consultation Today
If you have concerns about your child’s dental health or suspect they may have cavities and need a dental filling, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our kids dentists in Brighton, CO. Early intervention is key to preventing the progression of dental problems and ensuring your child enjoys a healthy, confident smile.
Contact Kids City Dental today to schedule your child’s consultation, and let us help you ensure your child’s dental health is on the right track. Together, we can give your child the gift of a healthy and beautiful smile that will last a lifetime!