Pediatric Dental Treatments - The Common Types
Establishing good oral hygiene habits early through pediatric dental care plays an important role in your child’s overall health and sets a strong foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. From preventing tooth decay and infection to treating cavities and correcting misalignment issues, pediatric dental care helps ensure that your child’s teeth, mouth, gum, and jaw develop properly and stay healthy. Some of the most common pediatric dental treatments for kids are:
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental sealants
- Silver diamine fluoride treatments
- Fillings
- Dental crowns
- Tooth extractions
As parents, we want to make sure our kids grow into strong, happy, and healthy individuals. One of the most important things we can do to help them is to take care of their teeth from an early age. By doing so, we can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
At Norman Smile Center, we understand that dental visits can sometimes feel intimidating for little ones. That’s why we focus on providing gentle, kid-friendly pediatric dental care so that each visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Dr. Kristen Campbell, Dr. Donna Sparks, and the team of experienced professionals at Norman Smile Center have more than 30 years of combined experience caring for patients of all ages in and around the Norman area and are dedicated to helping your child maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
Routine Dental Preventive Care
Preventive dental care is the first line of defense against cavities and other oral health issues. By keeping up with regular visits, you can help your child’s teeth stay strong and healthy as they grow.
Here are 3 preventative care treatments that help stop problems before they start.
1. Dental Cleanings and Exams
Regular checkups are essential for maintaining a child’s oral health. During these visits, the dentist will gently examine and clean your child’s teeth and remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to cavities. They also check their gums for any signs of problems and may take X-rays.
Exams allow the dentist to catch potential issues early, preventing small problems from turning into bigger ones. These visits also provide an opportunity to assess overall oral development, including monitoring for bite alignment and potential orthodontic concerns.
2. Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a safe and natural mineral that strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. It can remineralize your tooth enamel and reverse early tooth decay. It also prevents cavity-causing bacteria from growing in your mouth.
Dentists apply fluoride topically in a quick and painless process in the form of foam, varnish, or gel. Topical fluoride should be applied after the first tooth appears and reapplied every three to six months. This treatment is especially important for children who are still developing strong, cavity-resistant teeth.
3. Dental Sealants
Molars have deep grooves where food particles and bacteria can get trapped, which makes them prone to cavities. Dental sealants provide an added layer of protection by covering these grooves with a thin, protective coating. This treatment is simple, painless, and can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in hard-to-reach areas.
The CDC recommends that dental sealants should be applied soon after the molars have erupted from the gums. The process involves thoroughly cleaning the tooth and applying a special gel. The sealant is then painted on and cured with a light. Parents should know that sealants aren’t permanent and may need to be reapplied every five years or so.
Restorative Dental Treatments
Even with the best oral hygiene habits and preventive care, dental issues can sometimes arise. Restorative treatments help repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury, keeping your child’s smile healthy and functional.
Here are 4 common restorative treatments to help your child’s smile stay healthy.
1. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) for Cavities
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a non-invasive treatment used to stop cavities from getting worse. It’s a great option for younger children or those who may not tolerate traditional fillings well. While it does not restore the tooth structure, it does halt decay and prevent the need for more extensive treatment.
SDF is better than traditional fillings for certain patients and is typically used on younger children. It’s a popular choice because there is no drilling involved and it is easy to apply. Because SDF will leave permanent stains in the area of the cavity, it is generally only used on baby teeth.
2. Traditional Fillings
If a cavity progresses beyond what SDF can treat, a traditional filling may be necessary. Dr. Campbell and Dr. Sparks use tooth-colored composite fillings to restore the tooth’s structure while maintaining a natural appearance.
To prepare your child’s tooth for a filling, first the dentist will numb the area and remove the cavity using a drill. Then the area is cleaned with a special gel and the composite resin inserted and shaped and polished. The process is quick and designed to keep children comfortable.
3. Dental Crowns for Kids
In cases where a tooth has extensive decay or damage, a dental crown may be the best option. Crowns restore the tooth’s function and protect it from further harm. Pediatric crowns come in stainless steel or tooth-colored materials, depending on the location and needs of the child’s tooth.
4. Tooth Extractions
Sometimes, a tooth may need to be removed due to severe decay, overcrowding, damage, or in preparation for orthodontic treatment. Dr. Campbell and Dr. Sparks take great care to make the extraction process as gentle and stress-free as possible for young patients.
How to Protect Your Child’s Dental Health at Home
Good oral hygiene habits start at home, and establishing a consistent dental routine helps children develop lifelong habits that promote healthy teeth and gums.
Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Flossing should become a daily habit as soon as teeth start touching. To make sure children develop proper technique and don’t miss any areas, supervise their brushing and flossing until age seven or eight.
Creating a fun nightly routine, such as brushing together as a family or using a timer, can make dental care more enjoyable and reinforce good habits. Consider using apps, brushing charts, or flavored toothpaste to keep kids engaged.
Replacing toothbrushes every three to four months (or sooner if the bristles become frayed) helps maintain effective brushing. It’s also a chance for kids to get involved and pick out new toothbrushes they’ll be more likely to use.
Limiting sugary snacks and drinks also plays a key role in preventing cavities and keeping young smiles healthy. Encouraging kids to drink plenty of water, especially fluoridated tap water, can further support strong enamel.
Looking for more ideas? Here are some ways to handle the holiday candy crush, especially around Halloween, as well as 8 fun ways to teach your kids the importance of oral hygiene.
Trust the Health of Your Child’s Smile to Norman Smile Center
At Norman Smile Center, we’re dedicated to your child’s oral health and providing the care, attention, and compassion they need. We understand that our pint-sized pediatric patients may need a little extra reassurance and attention, so we take the time to answer questions, ease concerns, and celebrate every milestone. With a skilled team of dentists and hygienists, along with advanced technology and a welcoming environment, you can be confident that your child’s smile is in great hands with Norman Smile Center.
If you’re looking for a trusted dental provider for your child, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today to keep your child’s smile in great shape!