Baby teeth serve the important function of eating, speech, and esthetics (self-image). These teeth not only help form the developing jaws, but they hold space for the permanent teeth so that a normal bite occurs. The last baby tooth falls out at about twelve years of age. A decayed baby tooth can become so badly decayed that it can do damage to the permanent tooth. At times severe infections of the face, head, and neck can be caused by infected baby teeth. It is important to restore baby teeth as soon as decay is first detected.
In our office, teeth with dental decay are restored with composite fillings (tooth colored/white fillings), or if the decay is extensive, it may require the restoration to be done with a crown.
At the time of your child’s exam, Dr Joe and Dr Ryan will discuss in depth what type of treatment is recommended and best for your child. They are always available for any questions you may have.
The Restorative Visit
You can help us make this next visit a successful and positive experience for your child, by working with us to accomplish this goal. While talking to your child about this visit use positive words like fun, sleepy juice, tooth asleep, wiggle out a tooth, happy air, etc. Do not use negative words like pain, hurt, needle, shot, tooth pulled etc. The entire procedure will be explained to you and your child before the procedure is performed.
After treatment is completed, you can help us to continue the positive experience by praising your child and referring to the “fun” time they had. Please avoid negative comments such as: Did it hurt? That wasn¹t so bad! You were so brave! Did you get a shot? Were you afraid? These comments could persuade your child in thinking there was a reason to be afraid, and create anxiety for future dental appointments.
Sedation
We offer options for sedation dentistry depending on your child’s needs and how much treatment is required.
Nitrous oxide is a safe, effective option for children who are apprehensive about treatment and it quickly dissipates with normal breathing after the treatment is completed.
In office IV sedation is provided for those children who have anxiety, fear or unease regarding dental treatment, large treatment plans, a sensitive gag reflex, low pain thresholds, children with special needs and very young children. The anesthesia is provided by highly-trained, compassionate anesthesiologists from Bay Anesthesia Group.