Types of Pediatric Dental Procedures
Kids come in all shapes and sizes, and so do their dental needs. That’s why pediatric dentistry includes a wide range of treatments:
- Cleanings and preventive care. A checkup with a pediatric dentist every six months is best. It’s a chance for your child’s teeth to have a professional cleaning. Plus, they get to review their own dental hygiene skills. It also allows the dentist to keep a watchful eye on their oral health. That’s important because identifying problems early allows for them to be treated when it’s easier and more affordable to do so.
- Fluoride. Fluoride treatments help strengthen teeth. They can prevent cavities and discourage the buildup of tartar and plaque.
- Fillings. If decay or injury damages a tooth, a filling can restore its stability and function.
- Sealants. Thin layers of resin-based material, sealants are bonded to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They protect hard-to-clean areas from decay. In fact, they can cut the risk of cavities by up to 80%.
- Bonding. Bonding is a quick, easy way to fix teeth that are crooked, chipped or discolored. During the procedure, the dentist sculpts a white resin directly onto the tooth to repair the flaw.
- Extractions. When a tooth is too severely damaged to repair, an extraction may be necessary to remove it.
- Crowns. Crowns are steel or porcelain caps that replace the outer portion of the tooth. They’re used when a damaged tooth isn’t strong enough to hold together with just a filling. A crown can restore both the look and function of the tooth.
- Emergencies. Dental emergencies can be terrifying. In some cases, a delay in care may result in the loss of a tooth that could have been saved. Most pediatric dentists encourage patients to call if they have a dental emergency. Depending on the situation, the staff may provide instructions and direct them to come in for an appointment. Or they may advise them to seek immediate care elsewhere.