Pediatric Dental Services
Restorative Dentistry for Children
When a child needs treatment beyond a cleaning, the goal is the same: restore the tooth, protect the smile, and make the experience as calm and comfortable as possible. Dr. Boyd has provided expert restorative pediatric care in Temple since 1991.
When Children Need Restorative Care
Even with excellent home care and regular preventive visits, some children still develop cavities. Diet, genetics, and the structure of developing teeth all play a role. Needing a filling or crown is not a sign of failure — it is a normal part of childhood dental care for many families.
The important thing is addressing it promptly. Early restorative treatment is faster, simpler, and more comfortable than treatment deferred until a problem grows. Dr. Boyd will always explain exactly what your child needs and why — in plain language, with no pressure.
Restorative Treatments We Provide
All restorative procedures are performed in our Temple office, using techniques and materials designed specifically for children's developing teeth.
Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings
Used when: When a tooth has a cavity that has been cleaned out
Composite resin fillings are matched to the natural color of your child's tooth. They restore the tooth's shape and function while blending seamlessly with surrounding enamel. Most fillings are completed in a single visit.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Used when: When a primary tooth has extensive decay or is badly broken
Stainless steel crowns are highly durable, long-lasting, and used to protect primary molars that have too much damage for a filling alone. They are placed in one appointment and are the standard of care recommended by pediatric dentists for back teeth.
Space Maintainers
Used when: When a baby tooth is lost early
If a primary tooth is lost before the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, neighboring teeth can drift and block the correct path. A space maintainer holds that gap open so the permanent tooth can come in properly, preventing costly orthodontic issues.
Pulp Treatment (Pulpotomy)
Used when: When decay has reached the inner pulp of a primary tooth
Also called a baby root canal, a pulpotomy removes the infected portion of the tooth's nerve while preserving the remaining healthy structure. This allows the tooth to stay in place until it naturally falls out, which is important for jaw development and spacing.
Tooth Extractions
Used when: When a tooth cannot be saved or is causing harm
When a primary tooth is too damaged to restore, extraction may be the safest option. Dr. Boyd discusses aftercare and whether a space maintainer is needed following any extraction. Comfort and a calm experience for your child are always the priority.
How We Help Children Stay Comfortable
Many children (and parents) feel anxious about restorative dental treatment. Our team is trained specifically in pediatric behavior management and comfort techniques.
- Tell-show-do: we explain and demonstrate before touching
- Topical anesthetic before any injection
- Calm, quiet treatment rooms
- Frequent check-ins during the procedure
- Nitrous oxide available for anxious children
- Sedation options for complex or lengthy procedures
What to tell your child
Before the visit, reassure your child in simple, positive terms. Avoid specific procedural details that may trigger anxiety. Let the team guide the experience from there.
- —"Dr. Boyd is going to fix your tooth to keep it strong."
- —"The team will make sure you're comfortable the whole time."
- —"It won't take long and I'll be right there."
Questions Parents Often Ask
Do baby teeth really need to be repaired — they're going to fall out anyway?
Yes. Primary teeth serve important roles: they support speech development, allow proper chewing for nutrition, guide the jaw's growth, and hold space for permanent teeth. An untreated cavity in a baby tooth can become an abscess, cause pain, and affect the developing permanent tooth beneath it.
How do I know if my child needs a filling or something more?
Dr. Boyd will explain exactly what he finds and what he recommends at your child's exam. Digital X-rays and a clinical examination help determine whether a filling, crown, or other treatment is appropriate. We always discuss options with parents before proceeding.
Will my child be in pain during treatment?
We take comfort seriously. Before any restorative procedure, Dr. Boyd uses topical anesthetic to numb the area before the injection, then waits until your child is fully comfortable before beginning. For anxious children or more complex work, sedation options are available.
How long does a filling or crown appointment take?
Most fillings take 30 to 45 minutes. Crowns typically require 45 to 60 minutes. We book dedicated appointment blocks so your child receives calm, unhurried care without feeling rushed.
Related services at Pediatric Dentistry of Temple:
Have Questions About Your Child's Treatment?
Call our office and we will walk you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after your child's visit.
(254) 771-2515Mon – Thu, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 5008 Midway Drive, Temple, TX