Nov
The funny thing about cavities is that they start small and slowly hurt your little one’s smile. That’s why getting to them early is so important before they do more damage. At Groat Pediatric Dentistry in San Pedro, California, Dr. Christopher Groat and his team help kids keep their smiles healthy, strong, and cavity-free. Dr. Groat’s team has mastered the art of stress-free, and even fun, dental visits for your little ones. If your child needs a dental filling, here are some facts you need to know.
Cavities happen when bacteria in your child’s mouth feed on sugar. In exchange, they leave behind acid that eats away at tooth enamel, the coating that protects our teeth. But it doesn’t stop there. After the acid eats through the enamel, it spreads deeper, forming cavities. This means infections, pain, and possibly early tooth loss.
A dental filling fills in the spot where the cavity formed. It’s a quick and reliable way to fix your child’s tooth without the need for more expensive and/or invasive dental work. The goal is to stop the decay from spreading, helping them keep as much of their natural tooth as possible.
Composite resin fillings are designed to match your child’s tooth color. You won’t see any silver. It’s just a smooth, natural-looking fix that blends right in. These fillings are also super tough and can handle the pressure of everyday chewing. Plus, they form a tight bond to the tooth, keeping it protected.
First, Dr. Groat removes the decayed part of the tooth. He then clears the area and fills it with tooth-colored resin. Using a special curing light, he hardens the filling in seconds. Most kids are in and out quickly.
The first tip is brushing. You want to help your kiddo brush twice daily, especially before bed. Use fluoride toothpaste and help them floss at least once a day. And, of course, regular check-ups. Choosing healthy snacks and drinks is also a great way to protect your child’s teeth.
Dr. Groat and his team know how to keep children calm while delivering the best care. We focus on prevention, early treatment, and ensuring visits are fun. From a kid-friendly setup to our gentle approach, our office makes dental visits feel less like a punishment and more like a fun adventure.
Check-ups allow us to catch cavities early before they lead to bigger problems. They also keep your child’s smile clean and healthy.
Need to schedule a visit? Call Groat Pediatric Dentistry at (310) 832-5133 or stop by at 1350 W 7th St B, San Pedro, CA 90732. A healthy smile for your child starts with one easy step—book today, and we’ll take it from there.