Teeth are composed of many tiny pieces called molecules that attach to each other. These tiny pieces are constantly breaking apart throughout the day and reforming depending on our diet. Fluoride can be thought of as a “glue” for these pieces by keeping the molecules more tightly bound together and less prone to breaking apart. Topical fluoride treatment is effective in protecting children’s teeth and reducing cavities.
Think of a tooth’s top (chewing) surface as mountains with many grooves. When your child eats, food gets caught in those grooves. Although daily brushing is essential, applying a dental sealant will enhance the ability to keep those hard-to-reach areas clean. A dental sealant flows into the grooves, “sealing” the tooth and reducing the probability of cavities.
Radiographs (or X-Rays) are an essential part of our diagnostic protocol. Without them, dental conditions may go undetected. Dental X-Rays detect much more than dental cavities, and they allow the dentist to evaluate growth and development, bone health, pathology, and trauma. At Peak Pediatric Dentistry, we use the latest dental X-ray technology with very minimal exposure.
If your child’s cavity is too large to restore with a tooth-colored filling, a crown may be recommended. Crowns help protect the baby teeth, providing structure for the tooth. Crowning a tooth also maintains the space, allowing the eventual permanent tooth to erupt properly. If you are concerned about a silver crown, talk to Dr. Aimee Cassinelli about the possibility of a tooth-colored crown!
Baby root canals are often needed when the cavity approaches the tooth’s nerve. This procedure stops the progress of the cavity and minimizes the chances of an infection or abscess. The procedure is completed by cleaning out the center of the tooth where the nerve lives and placing soothing medicine. The tooth is then protected by placing a crown, as mentioned above.
The baby teeth serve as space holders for the permanent teeth. With the loss of a baby tooth, neighboring teeth start migrating into that vacant space, potentially causing problems as your child grows. This loss may lead to the need for extensive orthodontic treatment at a later age. A space maintainer is placed in that area to hold the space open so that the adult tooth can erupt in a more appropriate position.
Should your child have a cavity, we use a resin tooth-colored filling to restore function and comfort to your child’s tooth. These fillings restore teeth to an attractive, healthy state!
Your child may need to have a tooth extracted. Most often, extractions are indicated due to infection or for orthodontic purposes. Dr. Aimee Cassinelli will review your child’s needs and discuss treatment options with you.
