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Pediatric Dental Fillings In Fullerton

When your little one has a cavity, it can compromise their overall oral health and leave them with a lingering toothache. There’s no need to let sugar bugs get the best of their grin! Get your child’s smile back on track with pediatric dental fillings.

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When your child needs a dental filling, choosing the best pediatric dentist makes all the difference in their comfort and recovery. ChildSmiles OC provides gentle, comprehensive filling treatments designed specifically for children, ensuring each young patient feels secure throughout their appointment. Our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Mehdi Dowlaty, combines over 15 years of experience with state-of-the-art technology to deliver precise, comfortable care that helps restore your child’s healthy smile.

What Are Pediatric Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorative treatments used to repair cavities (tooth decay) in children’s teeth. When bacteria create holes in tooth enamel, fillings remove the decayed material and seal the space with biocompatible materials. Unlike adult treatments, pediatric fillings require specialized techniques and materials designed for developing teeth.

Children may need fillings in both baby teeth and permanent teeth. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, treating cavities promptly prevents pain, infection, and complications that could affect permanent teeth development.

Types of Pediatric Fillings

Composite Resin Fillings

Tooth-colored composite fillings blend seamlessly with natural teeth, making them ideal for visible areas. These fillings bond directly to tooth structure and can be completed in a single visit. Composite materials are mercury-free and provide excellent aesthetics for front teeth.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride, helping prevent future decay around the restoration. These fillings work well for baby teeth and areas prone to moisture, such as near the gum line. They’re particularly beneficial for children at higher risk of developing additional cavities.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

For very young children or those with special needs, SDF offers a non-invasive option to arrest cavity progression. This liquid treatment stops decay without drilling, though it may darken the treated area. SDF serves as an excellent interim solution while planning comprehensive treatment.

When Does Your Child Need a Filling?

Children typically develop cavities when bacteria produce acids that weaken tooth enamel. Signs your child may need a filling include:

  • Visible holes or dark spots on teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
  • Pain when chewing
  • Bad breath that persists after brushing
  • White or brown spots on teeth

Regular checkups allow Dr. Dowlaty to detect cavities early, often before your child experiences pain. Early intervention prevents small cavities from becoming larger problems requiring more extensive treatment.

Benefits of Treating Cavities Early

Prompt filling treatment prevents minor decay from progressing into serious complications. Untreated cavities can lead to:

  • Painful abscesses requiring emergency treatment
  • Damage to permanent teeth developing underneath
  • Speech development problems from premature tooth loss
  • Difficulty eating nutritious foods
  • Self-consciousness about smile appearance

Our gentle approach helps children develop positive associations with dental care, establishing healthy habits for life.

Preventing Future Cavities

After placing fillings, maintaining good oral hygiene becomes crucial for long-term success. We recommend:

  • Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Daily flossing with parent assistance
  • Limiting sugary snacks and drinks
  • Regular professional cleanings every six months
  • Dental sealants for permanent molars

Parent resources provide additional guidance for maintaining your child’s oral health at home.

How Much Do Composite Fillings Cost?​

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings at ChildSmiles OC typically cost $150 to $300 per tooth, depending on the size and depth of the cavity. These natural-looking restorations are ideal for maintaining both function and appearance.

Key Cost Factors:

  • Size and severity of the cavity
  • Number of tooth surfaces treated
  • Tooth location

We provide high-quality, family-friendly dental care with all major dental insurance plans accepted and membership plans available to help make treatment even more manageable. Schedule your child’s appointment today.

Why Choose ChildSmiles OC for Pediatric Fillings?

Dr. Dowlaty’s specialized training in pediatric dentistry ensures your child receives age-appropriate care tailored to their developmental needs. As a father of two, he understands the importance of creating positive dental experiences for young patients.

Our Fullerton practice serves families throughout Orange County with convenient scheduling options, including evening and weekend appointments. We accept most insurance plans and offer transparent pricing for families.

Advanced technology including digital X-rays and precise filling materials ensures efficient, comfortable treatment with excellent long-term results. Our playful office environment helps children feel at ease during appointments.

Schedule Your Child’s Consultation at ChildSmiles OC Today

Don’t let cavities progress into painful problems for your child. Dr. Dowlaty and our caring team provide gentle, effective filling treatments that restore healthy smiles while building positive dental experiences. Contact our Fullerton office today to schedule your child’s appointment and learn more about our comprehensive pediatric dental services.

At ChildSmiles OC, we’re committed to helping every child achieve optimal oral health through compassionate, expert care. Whether your child needs their first filling or ongoing restorative treatment, we create a comfortable environment where families feel confident in their dental care decisions. Call us at (714) 253-3172 or schedule online to give your child the gentle, professional dental care they deserve.

Care That Won’t Break The Bank

The cost of treatment shouldn’t keep your child from getting the filling they need. We keep care affordable so your little one can have a happy, healthy smile.

In-Network With Most Insurers

Works With Healthcare Lenders

Membership Plans Available

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The Benefits of Dental Fillings For Kids

Eliminate Pain & Discomfort

Small cavities can cause tooth sensitivity and tenderness to heat, cold, and the pressure of chewing. And bigger cavities could even cause a serious toothache. With a filling, you can eliminate your child’s pain and discomfort.

Prevent Tooth Loss

If it’s left untreated, a cavity will only get worse. Eventually, this may lead to a tooth infection. Without proper treatment, the infection may cause the tooth to fall out, or require extraction from a dentist. With a filling, your child won’t be at risk of losing a baby or adult tooth.

Affordable Treatment

Pediatric dental fillings are simple and affordable, and are covered by dental insurance. This makes them a budget-friendly option. This is especially true compared to more invasive treatments like root canals, which may be needed if your child doesn’t get a filling to treat their cavity.

What makes us different

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Composite fillings are matched to the color of your child’s tooth so it can blend in with the rest of their smile. Very little enamel is removed when adding a composite filling, which allows your child’s tooth to stay healthy and strong.

Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist

Rest assured that your child is receiving top-notch, specialized care with our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist. To be recognized by The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, doctors must undergo extensive training in the pediatric field in addition to their standard dental degrees.

A photo of pediatric dental sedation with a relaxed child sitting in a dental chair as a pediatric dentist and assistant provide gentle care.

Kid-Focused Crown Process

Crowns are placed with kids in mind. Our team explains each step in simple terms, works at a pace your child can tolerate, and focuses on comfort throughout the visit. The process is designed to protect the tooth long-term while helping kids feel safe, supported, and confident during treatment.

The Dental Filling Treatment Process

Initial Consultation

First, your child’s pediatric dentist will examine their mouth for signs of cavities. This may take place at a routine six-month visit, or whenever you bring your child into our office and suspect they have a cavity. If your child is complaining of pain, discomfort, or tenderness in one of their teeth, consider bringing them in for a checkup.

Tooth Preparation

After your child’s pediatric dentist confirms their cavity, you’ll schedule a follow-up appointment. At this appointment, your child’s dentist will clean and numb their mouth. Then, they will use a dental drill to gently remove any damaged or decayed enamel from their tooth.

Filling Placement

Once your child’s tooth has been prepared, their dentist will fill their tooth using a special type of tooth-colored composite resin. This resin is soft when it’s applied to the tooth. Then, your child’s dentist will sculpt, harden, and shape the resin to fill the tooth. As the final step, your child’s dentist will check the fit of the filling and make any necessary adjustments. Then, you and your little one will be sent home.

FaQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.

Some children notice sensitivity when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods. Others may complain about pain when chewing or have occasional toothaches. You might also see dark spots, holes, or white and brown areas on the teeth, or notice bad breath that doesn’t go away. Cavities don’t always cause pain at first, which is why routine visits through our Pediatric Dentistry services are so important. If you’re concerned, scheduling an exam is the best way to find out what’s going on. You may also be able to recognize visual indicators of tooth decay. If you look inside your child’s mouth and see a dark brown or black stain on their tooth, or you think that you can see visible pits or holes in your child’s tooth, it may be a cavity or tooth decay. If you suspect that your child has a cavity, contact your child’s dentist right away for an oral exam.
After your child’s pediatric dentist confirms their cavity, you’ll schedule a follow-up appointment. At this appointment, your child’s dentist will clean and numb their mouth. Then, they will use a dental drill to gently remove any damaged or decayed enamel from their tooth.
No. The goal is always to keep your child comfortable. The tooth is numbed so they don’t feel pain, and treatments are done gently and efficiently. Many children are surprised by how easy their visit feels. For kids who are anxious or have difficulty sitting still, sedation options are available to help them relax during treatment. You can learn more on our Pediatric Sedation page. The process of getting a filling is minimally-invasive, and your child’s mouth will be numbed to ensure they don’t feel any pain. In addition, we offer sedation to make sure that your child can remain completely comfortable.
Fillings remove the decayed portion of the tooth and seal it to prevent bacteria from causing further damage. This stops cavities from spreading, protects nearby teeth, and helps your child chew comfortably. Keeping baby teeth healthy also supports proper speech development and guides permanent teeth into the right position. Pediatric restorative care works hand in hand with regular cleanings and exams to protect your child’s smile. This stops the progression of the cavity by eliminating all damaged tooth material, as well as the bacteria that contributes to decay. In turn, this keeps your child’s smile bright and healthy.
Most dental insurance plans provide some level of coverage for pediatric fillings, though the amount can vary based on your plan’s deductible and yearly limits. The office team is happy to help review benefits and explain coverage before treatment. Membership plans are also available to help families manage costs.
With good home care and regular dental visits, pediatric fillings can last for many years. Brushing twice a day, flossing, limiting sugary snacks, and keeping up with professional cleanings all help extend the life of fillings. Your child’s dentist will continue to monitor them at each visit and let you know if any need attention.
If decay is more advanced, other restorative options such as pediatric crowns or pulpotomies may be recommended to protect the tooth. The goal is always to choose the most conservative treatment that keeps your child comfortable and their smile healthy. These options are part of our Pediatric Restorative Dentistry services and are discussed in detail after an exam.