Procedures Explained
Examination: A review of the general health of your child to see if there isany need for special dental care. A complete examination charts the health and disease of the teeth, gums, soft tissues and head and neck, and risk factors or areas of special concern are reviewed and analyzed. Growth of the jaws and development of the teeth are also considered. Oral habits such as thumbsucking are reviewed. All these are used to create a diagnosis and treatment and home care plan.
Teeth Cleaning and Fluoride: Teeth are cleaned to remove plaque (bacteria) and calculus (hard plaque) that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Topical fluoride is applied to the teeth to make them stronger and more resistant to tooth decay. A thorough cleaning and fluoride treatment every six months has been shown to be an extremely effective way to prevent dental disease.
Oral Hygiene Instructions: Prevention is the most important part of our practice. We will provide you and your child with dental hygiene instructions that will help maintain good oral health at home.
Bitewing Radiographs: Bitewings are used to determine the health of the teeth and bone. Cavities and unusual tooth shape and size are apparent on bitewings.
Panoramic Radiographs: A panoramic radiograph provides an overall view of your child's mouth and jaws. It reveals missing permanent teeth, extra teeth, abnormal growths, and other problems. A panoramic is normally taken when a child turns 6 years old (and/or the 6 year molars are erupting), and every 3-5 years thereafter. A panoramic may also be taken if a child suffers trauma to his/her jaw.
Sealants: The chewing surfaces of children's teeth are the most susceptible to cavities and least benefited by fluorides. Sealants (plastic coatings) are applied to the tops of teeth and are highly effective in preventing tooth decay.
Tooth Colored Fillings: are used to restore front teeth or where cosmetic appearance is important. Tooth colored fillings are used to repair fractured teeth and/or areas of decay. The shade of restorative material is matched as closely as possible to the color of the natural teeth. Tooth colored fillings may also be used for back teeth. Composites requires excellent hygiene and a careful diet following placement on teeth.
Stainless Steel Crowns: are used to restore back teeth that are too badly decayed to hold fillings.
Pulp Treatment: is necessary when decay has spread to the nerve of the tooth. The procedure consists of treating the nerve of the tooth to avoid extracting the tooth.
Extractions: are done only as a last resort. If a primary molar is removed prematurely, a space maintainer will be placed. Teeth may also be extracted for orthodontic reasons.
Space Maintainers: are used when a primary tooth has been prematurely lost to hold space for the permanent tooth. If space is not maintained, teeth on either side of the extraction site can drift into the space and prevent the permanent tooth from erupting.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): May be required to relax very apprehensive patients and patients with gag reflexes.
Conscious Sedation: children who are very anxious may require in-office sedation. Parents will be given more detailed information.
General Anesthesia: Children with extensive dental needs or special medical conditions may require treatment in the hospital, under general anesthesia. Parents will be given more detailed information.
Interceptive Orthodontics: Correction of minor Orthodontics problems such as a cross bite can be done with simple appliances.
Call us at 858-650-0838 to schedule and appointment.
If you'd like to schedule a no-obligation complimentary tour, just give us a call!