Amalgam Filling- Silver-colored fillings are made of a mixture of metals. According to a recent FDA report, studies show that amalgam fillings do not pose a health risk for kids ages 6 and up. Dentists sometimes prefer amalgam in certain situations because it’s very durable.
Bruxism- Clenching or grinding of teeth, most often while sleeping and commonly seen in children.
Composite Filling- Tooth-colored fillings made of glass or quartz resin. This material is bonded to the tooth and polished up beautifully. The composite material has some limitations and isn’t always the best choice for large cavities in small baby teeth.
Crossbite- This is when the top teeth fit inside of the bottom teeth. This may be caused by a thumb or pacifier habit, mouth breathing, or it may be the child’s bone structure. The early correction of a crossbite may correct facial asymmetry and make orthodontic treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.
Digital Radiographs- Offer 90% less radiation than traditional X-Rays. X-rays are prescribed when necessary to evaluate and monitor your child’s oral health. Since every child is unique, the need for dental x-rays varies from child to child.
Early Childhood Caries- Is the presence of cavities in a child 6 years old or younger. It is an infectious disease that can begin as early as the teeth begin to erupt in the mouth at age 6 months. Tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease-5 times more common than asthma!
Fluoride- Fluoride is a natural element that helps to strengthen tooth enamel. Fluoride can be found in tap water and is an active ingredient in many dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, and varnish. Research shows that fluoride has helped lowered tooth decay rates by over 50 percent! Children over the age of 2 should be using just a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste while brushing to benefit from its topical effects.
Mouth Guard- Mouth guards are made of soft plastic and they are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth. Mouth guards can help prevent jaw, mouth, and teeth injuries caused by a collision or fall and should be worn by athletes at any skill level while playing sports.
Panoramic X-ray- This “big picture” x-ray may be needed to survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone diseases, evaluate the results of an injury, or plan orthodontic treatment. It is most commonly taken on children age 6 and older.
Pulpotomy- A treatment necessary when a cavity or tooth fracture extends into the nerve of the tooth. Medicine is placed over the remaining nerve and the tooth is protected with crown. This treatment option relieves the child of pain while allowing us to restore and maintain the baby tooth until it is ready to fall out.
Sealant- This tooth colored material protects the grooved and pitted surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Sealants are only one step in the plan to keep your child cavity-free for a lifetime. Brushing, flossing, balanced nutrition, limited snacking, and regular dental visits are still essential to a bright, healthy smile.
Space Maintenance- Appliances made of metal or plastic are custom fitted to your child’s mouth to save space for the permanent teeth and guide them into position when a child’s baby tooth is lost early. Holding space for the developing permanent teeth can help prevent major crowding issues.
Stainless Steel Crown- Used only when necessary on the back teeth when a cavity is too large to fill with a filling. Stainless steel crowns provide us with a reliable way to restore and maintain the baby tooth until it is ready to fall out.
