Dental Fillings for Children
If your child has a cavity or a damaged tooth, a filling is often the simplest way to put things right. At Gallions Reach Dental Clinic, our experienced paediatric team uses gentle techniques and age-appropriate materials, taking the time to make sure your child feels comfortable and at ease.
Caring, child-focused fillings at our South-East London clinic
At Gallions Reach, we understand that the idea of a filling can feel daunting for a child, and sometimes for parents too. That is why we take a calm, unhurried approach with every young patient who visits us. Our dentists Marie Wong and James Wilson have a special interest in paediatric dentistry, and they are joined by a wider team who are well-practised at putting children at ease. Children like visits to us, as we explain everything in language they understand, give them plenty of encouragement, and go at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
Fillings for children are an important part of preventative care. Although baby teeth do eventually fall out, they play a key role in helping your child eat properly, speak clearly, and guide their adult teeth into the right position. Treating decay promptly with a filling helps avoid pain, infection, and the need for more involved treatment later on. Whether your child needs a small filling on a baby tooth or a more substantial restoration on a newly emerged adult tooth, we will recommend the most appropriate, comfortable solution for them.
A warm, welcoming clinic for children and families
Speak to our Experts
Talk to our patient care manager today to discuss the options available and to arrange your initial appointment.
Why parents choose Gallions Reach for their child’s fillings
With more than 30 years of experience caring for families across Greenwich and South-East London, we have helped hundreds of children build a positive relationship with the dentist. Many parents choose us for their child’s fillings because we offer:
- A specialist paediatric team – Marie Wong and James Wilson have considerable experience in treating the under 12s, and both are highly skilled in helping anxious children feel safe and supported.
- Gentle, modern techniques – We use child-friendly numbing methods, tooth-coloured filling materials, and, where appropriate, inhalation sedation to keep your child relaxed throughout treatment.
- A welcoming, calming environment – Our recently refurbished clinic has been designed with patient comfort in mind, so children feel at ease from the moment they arrive.
- NHS and private options – We offer both NHS and private paediatric care for children up to the age of 12, with private appointments usually available within two weeks.
- A focus on prevention – Alongside treatment, we provide friendly advice on brushing, flossing, and diet, helping your child avoid future cavities.
Find out more about our general paediatric dentistry services here.
What to expect when your child has a filling
We know that knowing what to expect can make a big difference, both for your child and for you. At Gallions Reach, we make sure every step is explained clearly and that your child feels in control throughout their visit.
A typical filling appointment with us includes:
- A friendly welcome and assessment – Our dentist will gently examine your child’s tooth, take any x-rays needed, and talk through the recommended treatment with you both.
- Gentle numbing – If a local anaesthetic is needed, we apply a numbing gel to the gum first so the small injection that follows is barely noticeable. For more anxious children, or for longer or more complex treatment, we can also offer inhalation sedation, which helps your child feel calm and relaxed while remaining awake and aware.
- Removing the decay – The decayed part of the tooth is carefully removed, and the area is cleaned ready for the filling.
- Placing the filling – The chosen filling material is shaped into the tooth and hardened, often using a special curing light. Your dentist will then check the bite to make sure everything feels comfortable.
- Aftercare advice – We will give you simple, clear guidance on what to expect once the numbness wears off, what your child can eat and drink, and how to keep the new filling in great condition.
Most children’s fillings can be completed in a single appointment, although nervous children, or those needing several teeth restored, may benefit from spreading treatment across two or more visits.
Our paediatric team
Marie Wong and James Wilson provide specialist care for child patients here at Gallions Reach. You can click below to view their profiles.
Marie Wong
Dentist
James Wilson
Dentist
At what age can a child have a filling?
Children can have fillings as soon as decay is detected, even on baby teeth. We treat children of all ages here at Gallions Reach, and our paediatric team is experienced in adapting their approach for very young patients to keep treatment gentle and stress-free.
Do baby teeth really need fillings if they are going to fall out anyway?
Yes, in most cases they do. Baby teeth help your child eat, speak, and smile with confidence, and they hold space for the adult teeth coming through underneath. Leaving decay untreated can lead to pain, infection, and problems with the adult teeth later on, so a small filling now can prevent much bigger issues in the future.
Will my child feel any pain during the filling?
We do everything we can to make sure your child is comfortable. The area around the tooth is fully numbed before any work begins, so your child should not feel any pain. They may feel some pressure or vibration, which we explain in advance using simple, reassuring language. For children who feel particularly anxious, we can also offer inhalation sedation.
How long does a children's filling take?
A straightforward children’s filling usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes from start to finish, although this can vary depending on the size and position of the cavity, and how your child is feeling on the day. We never rush treatment, and we always allow extra time if your child needs short breaks.
What can my child eat after a filling?
Once the numbness has fully worn off, which usually takes a couple of hours, your child can eat and drink as normal. While their mouth is still numb, please ask them to avoid hot drinks and chewy foods to prevent accidentally biting their cheek, lip, or tongue.
Frequently asked questions
Book your child’s filling appointment
At Gallions Reach Dental Clinic, we are here to help your child enjoy a healthy, happy smile through every stage of their childhood. Our caring paediatric team will look after your child with patience, kindness, and clinical expertise, whether they are visiting us for a routine check-up or need a filling to restore a tooth.
If you would like to register your child with us, or if you have noticed signs of toothache or decay and would like advice, please do not hesitate to get in touch.