If your child has been complaining about a sore or sensitive tooth, it’s possible that they may have a cavity that needs to be filled. Proper oral care can help prevent cavities, but tooth decay can still affect your child even if you’re brushing regularly. At Miles of Little Smiles, Dr. Dee or Dr. Mila can fill your child’s tooth and restore their smile in just a single appointment, and prevent further tooth decay-related complications. To learn more about our dental fillings in White Plains or to schedule an appointment, contact us today by calling (914) 949-6655!
Recognizing the Signs That Your Child Needs a Filling
There are a few different signs that your child may have a cavity that requires a filling. Your child may report that their tooth feels funny or hurts. If your child has a serious and painful toothache that lasts for more than a day or two, it’s likely that they have a deep cavity, or may even have an infected tooth.
Your child may also be more sensitive to some foods and drinks. Sweets, for example, may cause your child’s teeth to hurt if they have a cavity. They may also be more sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages.
The first stage of tooth decay usually appears as white spots on the affected teeth. As the tooth decay progresses and becomes a cavity, you may notice a light brown stain or visible pit on the surface of the tooth. As the cavity becomes deeper, this stain will become darker or even black, and you will be able to see a visible hole in the tooth.
If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s very likely that your child has a cavity, and will need a filling. Contact our White Plains dentist to schedule an appointment for your little one right away.
The Healing Process
Your child’s tooth might be numb when they leave the office, but after a few hours the numbing will wear off. It is very important to have an adult supervision after numbing to make sure the little ones are not biting their cheeks or lips. They will not feel pain or discomfort while they are numb, but after anesthesia wears off, it will hurt and might have a swelling from biting themselves.
Your child may feel some discomfort and sensitivity on a restored tooth for a few days following the procedure. This is normal.
Within a few days, their tooth will be completely healed. If your child is complaining of pain and sensitivity in their filled tooth for longer than about two weeks after their procedure, please give us a call and bring them back for an evaluation.
Can Fillings Fall Out?
It’s not uncommon for fillings to fall out. They can fall out if, child consistently eats sugary sticky candy and there is no regular brushing and flossing at home. This will cause the tooth around the filling to decay further or filling might de-bond, leading to the loss of that filling. Fillings can also fall out if there is persistent teeth grinding.
