Pros and Cons of Dental Fillings for Kids

With the help of dental fillings for kids, parents can protect the integrity and long-term health of their children’s teeth. The earlier the child receives this procedure, the more comfortable and less invasive it will be. However, there are times when a pediatric dentist may recommend other dental restorations. Explore the pros and cons of dental fillings and when they are necessary for kids.

Understanding dental fillings for kids

Dental fillings for kids restore teeth damaged or affected by tooth decay (i.e., cavities). According to Healthline, filling a cavity takes about 20 minutes to an hour. Thus, this process can be done at the end of a six-month dental checkup or in a separate appointment.

There are several types of fillings. Silver amalgam and gold fillings are often the first to come to mind for many. However, tooth-colored fillings, such as composite resin and porcelain fillings, are becoming more common because they provide a seamless restoration to the smile.

Pros of dental fillings for kids

Each type of dental filling has benefits unique to the material it consists of. Composite-resin fillings blend with the rest of the teeth, while metal fillings are known for their durability. Still, all fillings have several pros in common, such as how they:

• Restore chewing function: Fillings render a decayed tooth fully functional once again.
• Alleviate tooth pain: Filling the cavity relieves toothaches, a common symptom of decay.
• Promote long-term oral health: Without a filling, the decay would continue to eat away at the tooth and compromise its integrity, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Even filling a cavity in a temporary tooth can be beneficial. If the tooth is not already loose and set to fall out in a few days, the decay may progress and cause the tooth to fall out prematurely. This decay can also negatively impact the smile and jaw development. The teeth may shift into the prematurely empty space, making it difficult for the permanent tooth to come in. A dental filling prevents this process and allows the tooth to fall out in its own time.

Cons to consider

Just like any other type of dental restoration, dental fillings have pros and cons. For one, they can fall out if not cared for properly. Although durable, they will need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years. Further, fillings cannot restore severe cases of damage and decay. The pediatric dentist may recommend a crown that fits over the tooth like a cap in these cases. Tooth extraction would be the most beneficial option if the tooth cannot be saved.

Choosing the right dental restoration for your child

Dental fillings are often the most fitting restoration for early-stage tooth decay. However, the pediatric dentist will consider the child’s dental condition and the benefits and risks of each dental restoration available. The pediatric dentist will also consider the location of the affected tooth when determining the proper treatment. For instance, silver fillings are generally the most cost-effective option for a temporary molar that needs a restoration that is sturdy enough to withstand chewing pressure.