We know how nerve-wracking it can be tohear your child might need a dental filling. You’re not alone, many parentsworry about whether the procedure will hurt or how their child will handle it.At Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry in San Francisco, we’re here to ease thoseworries.

Let’s walk through what to expect during apediatric filling, and how we keep your child comfortable every step of theway.

What Is a Pediatric Dental Filling?

Dental fillings are one of the most commontreatments we provide for kids. When a cavity forms, it means there’s a smallarea of decay that needs to be cleaned out and repaired to keep the toothhealthy. A filling does just that, it restores the tooth and prevents futureproblems.

Here’s a kid-friendly look at how theprocess usually goes:

• First, we gently numb the areaso your child doesn’t feel anything during the procedure.

• We use SOAN electronicanesthesia to make the numbing process more comfortable (many kids don’t evennotice it’s happening!)

• Then, we wash out the area ofdecay using a special electric toothbrush.

• Finally, we place atooth-colored filling to seal and protect the tooth.

It’s a simple, routine process that takesjust one visit and we take the extra effort to make sure your child feels safeand comfortable.

Do Fillings Hurt?

This is probably the most common questionwe hear from parents.

With modern techniques and thoughtfulapproaches like ours, most children don’t feel any pain during the filling. Thearea is completely numbed, and we walk them through everything in fun,age-appropriate ways to help ease any nerves. Some children feel a little soreor sensitive afterward once the numbness wears off, but that typically fadesquickly. If needed, a dose of children’s ibuprofen or Tylenol can help.

Most kids bounce back right away, somedon’t even realize they had a filling done!

Can My Child Eat After a Filling withSOAN?

Yes! One of the biggest advantages of SOANis that it numbs only the treated tooth, not the surrounding lips, cheeks, ortongue. That means your child can eat and drink right after their appointment,without the risk of accidentally biting themselves or feeling strange fromlingering numbness.

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

Little smiles deserve special care. Dr.Erin Shah is not only trained to work with children’s unique dental needs,she’s passionate about making each visit positive and empowering. From usingsmaller instruments to creating a kid-friendly environment, we’ve built ourpractice around what helps children thrive in the dental chair.

Whether it’s your child’s first filling ortheir first visit ever, our team takes the time to explain, comfort, and cheerthem on.

Let Us Show You How We Make Fillings aBreeze!

If you’re feeling unsure or a littlenervous about your child’s upcoming dental filling, we’re here to talk itthrough. Every child is different and that’s why we take a personalizedapproach to every visit. Give us a call at (415) 825-3323 or request anappointment online today!