Children’s Temporary Tooth Filling: What You Need to Know
As parents, it’s common to experience the frustration of your child’s toothache at some point.
The feeling of wanting to help but also needing the correct knowledge.
Children’s temporary tooth fillings can be a lifesaver, but what exactly are they?
This article will discuss everything you need to know about children’s temporary tooth fillings, including what they are, why they are used, and how to use them properly.
What are children’s temporary tooth fillings?
Temporary fillings are used to fill in cavities in baby or adult teeth.
They are also known as provisional, interim, or short-term fillings.
These fillings are designed to be used for a short period until a permanent filling can be placed.
Temporary fillings are made of soft, flexible material that can be easily removed and replaced. Our team at Children’s Dental Professionals is experienced with dental fillings.
Why are children’s temporary tooth fillings used?
Temporary tooth fillings are used for several reasons, including:
Relieving tooth pain
Temporary fillings can temporarily relieve tooth pain caused by cavities or tooth decay.
Protecting the tooth
The filling material can protect the tooth from further damage until a permanent filling can be placed.
Allowing time for permanent treatment
Temporary fillings can provide short-term relief while waiting for a permanent treatment, such as a root canal or extraction.
Types of children’s temporary tooth fillings
Several types of materials can be used for children’s temporary tooth fillings.
The three most common types are:
Zinc oxide eugenol fillings
Zinc oxide eugenol fillings are made of a combination of zinc oxide and eugenol.
They are used for their soothing properties and can be used to provide temporary relief from tooth pain.
Glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made of acrylic and glass powder.
They fill cavities in baby teeth and release fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay.
Composite resin fillings
Composite resin fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass.
They are commonly used for permanent fillings but can also be used as temporary fillings.
Benefits of temporary tooth fillings for children
Temporary tooth fillings can offer several benefits to children, including:
Pain relief
The filling material can help alleviate tooth pain caused by cavities or decay.
Protection from further damage
The filling material can prevent bacteria from entering the cavity and causing further damage to the tooth.
Preservation of tooth structure
The filling material can help preserve the tooth structure, preventing the need for a more invasive procedure like a root canal or extraction.
Affordable
Temporary fillings are generally less expensive than permanent fillings or other dental treatments.
Risks of using temporary tooth fillings for children
While temporary tooth fillings can be beneficial, they come with some risks. These include:
Filling displacement
Temporary fillings can become dislodged, especially if the child eats sticky or hard foods.
This can cause discomfort and increase tooth damage or infection risk.
Allergic reactions
Some children may be allergic to the materials used in temporary fillings, which can cause inflammation, itching, or other allergic reactions.
Limited lifespan
Temporary fillings are not meant to last long-term and will eventually need to be replaced with a permanent filling or other dental treatment.
When to see a dentist
If your child experiences tooth pain or a cavity, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is important.
A dentist can assess the tooth and determine the best course of treatment.
Temporary tooth fillings should only be used as a short-term solution while waiting for permanent treatment.
Alternative treatments
There are several alternative treatments for tooth decay in children, including:
Fluoride treatments
Fluoride can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent further decay.
Sealants
Dental sealants can be applied to the surface of the teeth to prevent decay.
Root canal
Sometimes, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected or damaged tissue from the tooth.
Extraction
If the tooth is severely damaged or infected, it may need removal.
Tips for preventing tooth decay in children
Prevention is key when it comes to tooth decay in children. Here are some tips to help prevent cavities:
Brush twice a day
Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes each time.
Floss daily
Flossing can help remove food particles and bacteria from between teeth.
Limit sugary foods and drinks
Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay.
Regular dental check-ups
Regular dental check-ups can help detect and treat tooth decay before it becomes a more serious issue.
Conclusion
Children’s temporary tooth fillings can temporarily relieve tooth pain and protect the tooth from further damage.
However, they should only be used temporarily while waiting for permanent treatment.
If your child experiences tooth pain or decay, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the best course of treatment.
FAQs
Can temporary tooth fillings be used for baby teeth?
Yes, temporary tooth fillings can be used for both baby and adult teeth.
How long do temporary tooth fillings last?
Temporary tooth fillings are designed to be short-term solutions and will eventually need to be replaced with a permanent filling or other dental treatment.
Can temporary tooth fillings fall out?
Yes, temporary tooth fillings can dislodge, especially if the child eats sticky or hard foods.
Are temporary tooth fillings safe for children?
Yes, temporary tooth fillings are generally safe for children, but they come with some risks, such as filling displacement and allergic reactions.
Discussing the risks and benefits with your child’s dentist is important.
How can I help prevent tooth decay in my child?
You can help prevent tooth decay in your child by encouraging them to brush and floss regularly, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and taking them for regular dental check-ups.
Schedule a dental check-up for your child to discuss the best treatment options for tooth pain or decay.
Or:
- Call us at: 316-613-2077
- Email us at: office@jumpreachgrowsmile.com
Our office is conveniently located in Wichita, KS. We also happily welcome families from all over the neighboring communities!