Restorative Care

After treating the original problem, Dr. Rachel will then schedule an appointment for an in-depth evaluation. At this session, she may take several X-rays to determine the extent of the damage, and to plan the best way to restore the tooth. Some of the possible options include:

• Crowns: A crown goes over the surface of a tooth to restore it when the decay is too extensive to treat with filling material. This provides structure and protection for the tooth. In the case of primary teeth, Dr. Rachel makes sure that the permanent teeth have enough space to erupt on either side of the treated tooth. We use white restorations on front teeth so they blend in well with the natural color of your child’s teeth.

• Fillings: Teeth with mild to moderate decay can be preserved with tooth-colored filling material.

• Sealants: Dental sealants are more of a preventive measure, but can also be used on teeth already showing signs of decay. This involves our dentist ‘painting’ the tooth with sealant materials then allowing a few minutes for the surface to dry. This is an especially effective treatment for back teeth that can attract bacteria and be difficult to clean owing to natural grooves.

Of course, every child is an individual and your son or daughter may require a different procedure. We take time during the evaluation process to ensure we offer the most effective and appropriate treatment possible. Dr. Rachel will explain the procedure in-depth prior to the appointment so you and your child know exactly what to expect.

What is a Pediatric Dental Crown?

A dental crown, also called a dental cap, fits over the surface of a tooth. It restores the regular shape and size of your child’s tooth and helps it regain strength. The crown also protects the tooth from breaking or cracking again. While we will typically first attempt to restore the tooth with a filling, this isn’t always possible. Your child may also need a pediatric dental crown following root canal therapy.

Stainless Steel and White Dental Crowns

Dr. Rachel typically chooses either a stainless steel or white dental crown for your child. The first type preserves the most tooth structure. It is strong enough to withstand the forces of chewing and biting. One drawback to this crown type is the noticeable metallic color. This isn’t an issue for back teeth and for anterior (front) teeth, we can create a white facing for the crown.  Although not as durable, a white dental crown is more aesthetically pleasing. It’s also important to remember that a dental crown may need to be replaced when the baby tooth falls out.

Placing Your Child’s Dental Crown

To ensure your child’s comfort, Dr. Rachel will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and the area surrounding it. You may also consider a sedative option for your child at this point as deemed appropriate. After ensuring the tooth is numb, Dr. Rachel first shapes the tooth, then places the custom crown over the top of it. The last step is to cement the dental crown in place.

Benefits of Composite Resin Fillings

These fillings are appropriate to treat a small or medium amount of tooth decay. They are extremely durable and not prone to breaking. Our dental team matches the shade of your child’s tooth to the filling material as closely as possible. This is helpful for patients who feel self-conscious and don’t want others to know they have had dental work performed. Ceramics are another alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings.

Dr. Rachel will share all options with you following a diagnosis of your child’s condition.

Some parents feel concerned about the small amount of mercury present in metal fillings. Composite and ceramic fillings are free of mercury, which eliminates any concerns about mercury fillings.

What to Expect When Your Child Receives Composite Resin Fillings

Dr. Rachel first ensures your child’s comfort by providing him or her with a local anesthesia before applying the filling. This numbs the tooth receiving the filling and the area surrounding it. Our single tooth anesthesia system makes it simple to pinpoint the treated area and avoid numbing anything else.

After ensuring the anesthesia has taken effect and your child is comfortable, our pediatric dentist then removes decay from the tooth with a special dental drill. This prepares the tooth to receive the filling material. Next, she places layers of resin on the tooth and shines a curing light on it to harden the material. She finishes by polishing your child’s tooth and applying a dental sealant to prevent bacteria from invading the tooth structure again.