Treating cavities in baby teeth
baby tooth cavity treatment · filling for a child · childhood cavities · treating baby teeth
The dentist cleans out the hole in a baby tooth and puts in a filling. This keeps the tooth until it is replaced by a permanent one.
When a baby tooth has a cavity: a dark spot, a hole, or your child complains of pain.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 40 minutes per tooth
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Mood. Tell your child calmly that the doctor will count and clean their teeth. Do not scare them with injections or pain.
- Food. Feed your child 1 to 2 hours before the visit.
- Timing. Choose a time when your child is usually alert, not just before sleep.
What to bring
- Your child's papers
- A favorite toy
- A list of medicines, if your child takes any
How it goes
- Your child sits in the chair and meets the instruments
- The doctor examines the teeth
- If needed, numbing is given, first a gel and then an injection
- The cavity is cleaned out with a drill or hand tools
- A filling is placed and fitted to the bite
What you'll feel
- The noise and vibration of the drill may be scary
- After the injection, the lip and cheek are numb for 1 to 2 hours
Afterwards
- Do not feed your child until the numbness is gone, as they may bite their cheek
- Make sure they do not bite or rub the numb lip
- Brush teeth as usual in the evening
- Come for a check-up at the time your doctor sets
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe pain or a swollen cheek
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F) with a swollen face
Common questions
Why treat a baby tooth if it will fall out?
A diseased tooth can hurt, become inflamed, and damage the permanent tooth underneath.
What if my child is afraid?
Tell the doctor beforehand. Meeting the office and a short first visit often help.