Tooth-Colored Fillings for Children in Denver, CO
At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we use tooth-colored composite resin fillings to repair cavities and restore damaged teeth in a way that looks natural, feels comfortable, and protects your child’s smile. Dr. Kojo Danso treats each filling appointment with the care and patience that children deserve — making sure your child is comfortable, informed, and at ease every step of the way.
Request an AppointmentWhat Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by cavities, cracks, or fractures. When decay forms in a tooth, the damaged portion must be removed and the resulting space must be filled to restore the tooth’s structure and prevent bacteria from continuing to grow inside it.
At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we primarily use composite resin — a tooth-colored material that is matched closely to the natural shade of your child’s teeth. Unlike traditional silver (amalgam) fillings, composite resin fillings blend in naturally, are free of mercury, and bond directly to the tooth structure, which helps preserve more of the healthy tooth.
Types of Fillings Available
Composite resin (tooth-colored fillings): Our most commonly used filling material. Composite resin fillings look completely natural and require the removal of less healthy tooth structure than older materials. They are applied in layers and cured with a special light to harden securely in place. Once polished, they are smooth and virtually invisible.
Glass ionomer cement: Used in certain situations — particularly for very young children or teeth in areas that are difficult to keep dry. Glass ionomer releases small amounts of fluoride over time, which provides additional cavity protection around the filling.
Dr. Danso will recommend the most appropriate material based on your child’s age, the location of the cavity, and other clinical considerations.
What to Expect During a Filling Appointment
We begin by making sure your child is completely comfortable. A local anesthetic is applied to numb the gum tissue around the affected tooth, so your child does not feel pain during the procedure. We use gentle, careful technique and explain each step in age-appropriate language to keep your child calm and informed.
Once the area is numb, Dr. Danso carefully removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. The area is cleaned and prepared for the filling. In some cases, a protective liner may be placed near the nerve before the filling material is applied. The composite resin is then placed in layers, shaped carefully, and hardened using a curing light. Finally, the filling is smoothed and polished to create a comfortable, natural-feeling result.
The appointment length varies depending on how many teeth are being filled and the extent of the decay. Our team will give you a time estimate when you schedule.
Caring for Fillings After the Appointment
After the appointment, your child’s mouth may feel numb for a couple of hours. During this time, encourage them not to bite their cheek, lip, or tongue. Soft foods are recommended for the rest of the day while the area settles. The filled tooth may be slightly sensitive for a day or two — this is completely normal and typically resolves on its own.
Long-term, composite fillings can last for many years with proper care. Help your child maintain their fillings by brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, avoiding excessively hard or sticky foods, and attending regular dental cleanings and exams every six months.
Preventing the Need for Future Fillings
The best filling is one your child never needs. We strongly emphasize cavity prevention through fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and education on proper home care. We use digital X-rays to detect decay in its earliest stages, giving us the chance to intervene before a full filling is even necessary.
Contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO, at (303) 757-8844 to schedule your child’s appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fillings
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 clinical situations, glass ionomer cement may be used instead. Dr. Danso will recommend the best option based on your child’s specific needs.
Are tooth-colored fillings as durable as silver fillings?
Yes. Modern composite resin fillings are strong, long-lasting, and perform very well in children’s teeth. They bond directly to the tooth structure, which helps support the tooth while also looking completely natural.
Does getting a filling hurt?
We apply a local anesthetic before beginning, so your child should not feel pain during the procedure. Our team takes extra care to make the numbing process as comfortable as possible, and we also offer SOAN pain-free injections to minimize any discomfort from the numbing itself.
How long does a filling appointment take?
Most filling appointments last between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the number of teeth being treated and the size of the cavity. We’ll give you an accurate time estimate when scheduling.
Do baby teeth need to be filled if they’re going to fall out anyway?
Yes. Baby teeth serve important functions — they hold space for permanent teeth, support speech development, and allow your child to eat comfortably. Untreated cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, infection, and even damage to the developing permanent teeth beneath them.
My child just got a filling — why is there still sensitivity?
Some mild sensitivity in the days following a filling is completely normal, especially to temperature or pressure. This typically resolves within a few days. If sensitivity persists beyond a week or becomes more severe, contact our office at (303) 757-8844 so we can evaluate the tooth.
How can I help prevent my child from needing fillings?
Encourage consistent brushing and flossing, limit sugary snacks and drinks, ensure your child drinks fluoridated water, and keep up with their twice-yearly dental visits. Ask us about sealants and fluoride treatments — both are highly effective at reducing cavity risk.