Fillings
Dental fillings are a quick, simple procedure to restore your child’s tooth and bring their smile back to optimal health. Dental fillings (also called composite fillings) are non-toxic, durable, and typically tooth-colored giving a more cosmetically pleasing appearance as it blends in with your child’s smile.
Extractions
Sometimes when a tooth has been damaged, either through a large cavity or trauma, the best option is to remove the broken down tooth. We try to save teeth as much as possible. Sometimes extraction is the best thing we can do to help maintain good oral health and avoid infection.
If the tooth to be extracted is a baby molar, we may also recommend a space maintainer so that there is adequate space for the permanent tooth to erupt as the child gets older.
Children often recover quickly from extractions and most times can resume normal activities the same or next day.
Sealants
Sealants are used to fill in the back teeth's deep grooves, facilitating easier cleaning during brushing and preventing cavities. They should be applied when the first permanent molars erupt, usually around age 6. Most of the time sealants are placed on permanent teeth, but in some cases, it may be advised to have baby teeth sealed.
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In most cases, sealants last 2-3 years, but can last even longer by avoiding biting hard objects and focusing on proper hygiene. If, however, a sealant breaks down, it is easily repaired or replaced.
Crowns
When a tooth has extensive decay that a traditional filling cannot restore, a full-coverage crown is necessary. These crowns can restore a tooth to its proper form and function. Most back teeth are restored with stainless steel crowns and we offer all-white zirconia (tooth-colored) crowns for the front.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”, is a breathable gas that can help children relax during dental treatments. The child remains awake during the procedure but will feel more relaxed and calm. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes this technique as safe, effective, and non-addictive. The mixed gas is easily inhaled with normal breathing and is quickly eliminated from the body when the procedure is over.
General Anesthesia
Aptly referred to as “sleep dentistry", general anesthesia enables a child to literally sleep through their appointment. This is a great option allowing significant dental work to be completed without traumatizing a child, thus allowing them to continue visiting the dental office with confidence.
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We typically recommend this for children who need extensive dental care, experience mental or physical special needs, or have an extreme fear of the dentist.
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Given the fact that general anesthesia involves the administration of a sedative via IV, we will go over your child’s full medical history to make sure everything is safe before the procedure.
Special Needs
Dr. David loves his patients with special needs!
He has had specific training on how best to work with neurodivergent children. He knows that each child is unique and wants to work together with you as the parent to make sure your child has the best experience possible.
You and your child can visit the office without an appointment to familiarize yourselves with the surroundings. You can also schedule a peer modeling session where your child can watch one of Dr. David’s own children in the chair. We have activity schedules, sensory-friendly hours, and all the love in the world for our special needs friends.
Please call our office and let us know how we can help.