Fillings

Tooth Fillings for Kids: A Simple Solution for Healthy Smiles

Gentle, Effective Cavity Treatment in Colorado Springs, CO

Cavities are common in children—and if left untreated, they can lead to pain, infection, or even problems with developing adult teeth. That’s why fillings are such an important part of pediatric dental care.

At Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics, our goal is to make dental visits easy and stress-free while providing the high-quality care your child deserves. If your child has a cavity, a dental filling can restore their tooth, relieve discomfort, and help protect their long-term oral health.

Why Children Might Need Fillings

Children’s teeth—especially baby teeth—are more vulnerable to decay. Between sugary snacks, juice, and the difficulty of brushing little mouths thoroughly, it’s no surprise cavities are a common issue.

Fillings are used to:

Remove decay and prevent it from spreading
Restore normal function (so your child can eat, speak, and smile comfortably)
Protect the tooth until it naturally falls out or is replaced by a permanent tooth

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a vital role in your child’s development. They help guide the permanent teeth into place, and losing them too early can lead to crowding or bite problems down the road.

What Is a Dental Filling?

A filling is a material used to fill in the space left after a cavity is cleaned out. It restores the shape and strength of the tooth and helps stop the decay from returning.

At Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics, our experienced pediatric dentists in Colorado Springs use safe, effective materials and techniques tailored to your child’s age, needs, and comfort level.

Types of Fillings for Kids

We offer a few types of fillings, depending on where the cavity is and how big it is:

✅ Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored)
These fillings are made from a durable resin and glass mixture that blends in beautifully with your child’s natural teeth. Composite fillings are ideal for visible teeth or when a natural appearance is preferred. They bond well and last for years with good care.
✅ Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are especially helpful for younger children or small cavities. They release fluoride over time, which helps protect surrounding teeth and prevent future decay. While not quite as strong as composite, they’re a great choice for baby teeth or areas with less chewing pressure.
❌ Amalgam Fillings (Silver)
Though still used in some practices, we do not perform amalgam (silver) fillings at Kids Rock. We've moved exclusively to resin-based, tooth-colored restorations for a healthier and more natural-looking result.

What to Expect During the Filling Procedure

We understand that dental procedures can feel intimidating—especially for children. That’s why we focus on comfort, communication, and gentle care every step of the way.

Here’s what typically happens during a filling:

Numbing the Area: A local anesthetic is used to numb the tooth. If your child is anxious, we may also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help them relax.
Removing the Decay: The dentist carefully removes the damaged part of the tooth using special instruments.
Placing the Filling: The chosen filling material is placed into the space, shaped to match the natural tooth, and hardened with a special light.
Finishing Touches: We polish and smooth the filling to ensure it fits comfortably and looks natural.

The entire process is quick, safe, and designed to make your child feel as comfortable as possible.

Why Fillings Matter (Even in Baby Teeth)

Some parents wonder if it’s necessary to fill cavities in teeth that will fall out anyway—but the answer is a resounding yes. Untreated decay can lead to:

Pain and discomfort
Infections or abscesses that may require more extensive treatment
Premature tooth loss, affecting the alignment of permanent teeth
Difficulty eating or speaking
Negative experiences that may lead to dental anxiety later on

Fillings are a simple way to avoid bigger problems—and help your child stay healthy and confident.

Tips for Preventing Cavities at Home

While fillings are effective, prevention is always best. Here’s how you can help protect your child’s teeth between visits:

🪥 Brush twice a day (with fluoride toothpaste) and floss daily
🧃 Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially juice and sticky treats
🦷 Visit the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and checkups
💧 Consider fluoride treatments if your child is cavity-prone
️ Ask about dental sealants, which protect hard-to-reach molars

Good habits at home, combined with professional care, are the best defense against decay.

Why Choose Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics?

At Kids Rock, we don’t just treat teeth—we care for kids. Our friendly, kid-focused team knows how to make every appointment a positive experience, even for nervous little ones.

Here’s what you can expect when you visit our Colorado Springs pediatric dental office:

👶 Specialists in pediatric care, from toddlers to teens
💬 Clear communication and helpful guidance for parents
🧸 A warm, welcoming environment designed with kids in mind
🪥 Personalized treatment plans tailored to your child’s needs

We’re here to support your child’s smile at every stage—and to give you peace of mind knowing they’re in good hands.

Schedule a Visit Today

If your child has a cavity—or if you just want to stay ahead with preventive care—we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment with our compassionate pediatric dental team at Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics in Colorado Springs, CO.

Let’s keep those little smiles shining bright!