Cavities and Fillings for Children in Denver, CO
When your child develops a cavity, getting it treated promptly is the best way to protect their tooth and prevent further damage. At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Kojo Danso provides gentle, comfortable cavity treatment and dental fillings for children of all ages in Denver, CO,. We use tooth-colored materials to restore your child’s smile naturally — with minimal discomfort and maximum care.
Request an AppointmentWhat Are Dental Fillings and Why Do Children Need Them?
Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative treatments in pediatric dentistry. They are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by cavities (tooth decay), cracks, or fractures. When decay is left untreated, it can spread deeper into the tooth, reaching the nerve and potentially causing pain, infection, or the need for more extensive treatment. Catching and filling cavities early protects the tooth and keeps your child comfortable.
Even baby teeth can and should be filled when they have cavities. Primary teeth hold space for permanent teeth, support proper speech development, and allow children to chew comfortably. Letting a cavity go untreated in a baby tooth can cause pain and interfere with your child’s daily life — and in some cases, the infection can affect developing permanent teeth beneath the surface.
Types of Filling Materials We Use
At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we primarily use composite resin — a tooth-colored material that blends seamlessly with your child’s natural teeth. Composite fillings are a popular choice for several reasons. They look natural, they bond directly to the tooth structure, and they don’t require as much removal of healthy tooth material as some other options.
The composite resin filling process takes a bit more time than older amalgam fillings, but most parents and children prefer it because the results are virtually invisible. We apply the resin in layers, using a special curing light to harden each layer before moving to the next. Once complete, we smooth and polish the filling so it feels comfortable and looks natural.
In some cases, other materials like glass ionomer cement may be used — particularly for very young children or in areas that are harder to keep completely dry during placement.
What to Expect During a Filling Appointment
Before we begin, we’ll make sure your child is completely comfortable. We’ll apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth so your child doesn’t feel pain during the procedure. Our team uses gentle techniques and age-appropriate language to help your child understand what’s happening and feel at ease throughout the appointment.
Once the area is numb, Dr. Danso will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area thoroughly. The filling material is then placed, shaped, and hardened. We’ll check your child’s bite to make sure everything feels right, then polish the tooth for a smooth, natural finish.
The length of the appointment depends on how many teeth need to be filled and the extent of the decay. We always take the time needed to do the job right — never rushing in ways that might compromise your child’s comfort or the quality of the result.
Preventing Cavities in Children
The best filling is one that’s never needed. Our team emphasizes cavity prevention at every visit — including fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel, dental sealants to protect the grooves of back teeth, and guidance on diet and brushing habits that reduce cavity risk. We also use digital X-rays to detect decay between teeth before it becomes visible, giving us the best chance to catch problems early.
If you suspect your child has a cavity or it’s time for a checkup, contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry today at (303) 757-8844. We serve families throughout Denver and Denver, CO, with expert, gentle pediatric dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cavities and Fillings
Do baby teeth really need to be filled if they’re just going to fall out?
Yes — even baby teeth need to be treated when they develop cavities. Primary teeth hold space for permanent teeth, support speech development, and allow your child to eat comfortably. Untreated cavities can cause pain, infection, and in some cases affect the developing permanent teeth underneath.
What type of fillings do you use for children?
We primarily use composite resin fillings, which are tooth-colored and blend naturally with your child’s smile. In certain situations, other materials such as glass ionomer cement may be used. Dr. Danso will recommend the most appropriate material based on your child’s age, the location of the cavity, and other clinical factors.
Will my child feel pain during a filling?
We apply a local anesthetic to numb the area before beginning, so your child should not feel pain during the procedure. Some children feel slight pressure or vibration, but not sharp pain. Our team also offers comfort options like SOAN pain-free injections to make the numbing process itself as gentle as possible.
How long does a filling appointment take?
Most filling appointments take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the number of teeth being treated and the extent of the decay. We’ll give you an estimate at the time of scheduling so you can plan accordingly.
How can I help prevent my child from getting cavities?
Encourage twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, once-daily flossing, and a diet low in sugary foods and drinks. Regular dental visits every six months for cleanings and exams also play a major role. We also offer fluoride treatments and sealants that can significantly reduce your child’s cavity risk.
How do I know if my child has a cavity?
Some cavities cause noticeable symptoms like tooth sensitivity, pain when eating sweet or cold foods, or a visible dark spot on the tooth. However, many cavities — especially early ones — have no obvious symptoms at all. That’s why regular dental visits and digital X-rays are so important for catching decay before it becomes a bigger problem.
What should I do if my child is afraid of getting a filling?
Dental anxiety is common and our team is very experienced in working with nervous children. We use gentle techniques, calm explanations, and a patient pace to help your child feel comfortable. For children who need more support, we also offer sedation options. Call us at (303) 757-8844 to discuss the best approach for your child.