Children are often scared when it comes to going to the dentist. We believe in making visits to the dentist a fun and enjoyable experience to encourage children to happily get examined. In order to achieve this, we explain our entire process to children in the simplest form possible and make them feel at home.
Pediatric Dentistry Procedures
Dental problems can develop at any age. Some common pediatric dentistry procedures that we specialize in are:
Dental Filling
A dental filling is a restorative artificial substance used to fill gaps or holes in decayed, cracked, or damaged teeth. It is best used to treat cavities in children, restoring complete tooth function and preventing future caries. Dental fillings are available in gold, porcelain, silver amalgam, tooth-colored plastic, and glass composite material.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a sort of preventative dental care treatment that serves as a barrier between cavity-causing bacteria and tooth enamel. They are recommended by pediatric dentists for children as soon as their permanent molars and premolars appear. A medical-resin gel is applied to the surface of the molars and premolars to fill crevices and prevent cavities from forming. It is a minimally invasive, painless, and cost-effective dental treatment for children.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment, which contains a high concentration of fluoride, is the most effective preventive dental care treatment for reducing the risk of dental caries and tooth decay. Fluoride treatment is available in two forms: systemic (naturally through tap water) and topical (professionally through fluoridated toothpaste and application). It is an ADA-approved safe pediatric dental care treatment.
Space Maintainer
A space maintainer is an orthodontic device that keeps the space free for permanent teeth to grow for children after baby teeth fall out prematurely. There are two types of space maintainers: removable (made of acrylic) and immovable (made of stainless steel). Both of these maintainers assist children in keeping their teeth aligned and having a healthy smile.
Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits & Practices for Children
As pediatric dentists, we recommend children to visit the dentist at least once by the time their first birthday comes around. Baby teeth require timely checkups and dental care to ensure there are no growth issues. This also helps to instill proper oral hygiene habits in children from a young age.
Parents should keep a close eye on their children’s teeth from the moment they erupt. Check them once every two weeks to ensure there are no lines or discoloration. Make sure your children brush regularly and especially after meals.
Children should be taught to brush as soon as their teeth develop. Small amounts of toothpaste and brushes with soft bristles should be used in the beginning when the teeth are still growing. Teach them the proper method to brush their teeth as this is a major factor in preventing cavities and decays.
Preventing Tooth Decay & Oral Disease
Sugars left in the mouth turn into an acid which then breaks down the teeth, weakening them and causing decays. This can be prevented with proper dental care and hygiene. Since children do not practice regular, good oral hygiene habits, there is higher risk of them developing cavities and decays.
The best way to prevent this is to properly and regularly brush your teeth, floss them and pay timely visits to your pediatric dentist.
Children should visit the dentist at least twice a year. They should have dental cleanings and checkups every six months to ensure that there are no problems. Fluoride treatments are also recommended twice a year to keep their teeth strong and healthy.
Another way to prevent decays are to use tooth sealants. The sealant keeps the decay from forming in areas which are difficult to access. At every checkup, dentists check and monitor the sealant which can last for a few years.