- Dental ExaminationThe first visit typically consists of a complete dental examination, cleaning, and fluoride treatment. This includes checking for cavities, gum disease, checking the bite for correct alignment of the jaws and checking the development of the teeth. X-rays will be taken based on the individual needs of your child. The appointment also includes a final consultation to address any further questions or necessary dental treatment. Every appointment ends with some take home goodies for your child and a trip to the toy tower for a job well done!
- X-raysThumb and pacifier sucking habits that go on for a long period of time can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. If they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist. Most children stop these habits on their own. How safe are dental X-rays?
- Teeth Cleaning
- Fluoride Treatment
- Dental SealantsA sealant helps protect the teeth from cavities. A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.
- Space MaintainersSince primary teeth guide the permanent teeth into place, infants with missing primary teeth or infants who prematurely lose primary teeth may require a space maintainer, a device used to hold the natural space open. Without a maintainer, the teeth can tilt toward the empty space and cause permanent teeth to come in crooked. Missing teeth should always be mentioned to your family dentist. The way your child cares for his/her primary teeth plays a critical role in how he/she treats the permanent teeth. Children and adults are equally susceptible to plaque and gum problems—hence, the need for regular care and dental checkups.
- Fillings
- CrownsThe part of the tooth you see is called the crown. The rounded high parts of the back teeth are cusps. The hard white outer covering of the tooth is the enamel. Below the gumline, holding the tooth in the jawbone is the root of the tooth. You can’t see the roots. The inner portions of the tooth consist of the dentin...
- PulpotomyThe success rate is high (approximately 90%) with this procedure, failures can result due to microscopic bacteria remaining in the tooth and/or inflammation as a result of the procedure itself A pulpotomy is performed prior to the placement of the filling or crown. This is all done in the same appointment. Your child will not know that this is taking place, as his or her tooth will be anesthetized (numb).
- Root Canal TreatmentA pulpectomy is indicated when bacteria and infection have involved the entire pulp or nerve of the tooth. A pulpectomy requires the complete removal of the pulp in a tooth (similar to an adult root canal), including the root portion. This procedure is indicated for primary teeth that are painful and/or beginning to abscess. This procedure has a much poorer prognosis due to the extent of the infection, but is indicated in certain situations.
- Tooth Extractions