318 Pediatric Dentistry

Children may need fillings due to cavities caused by tooth decay, which can occur from poor oral hygiene, diets high in sugar, or trauma to the teeth.

During the appointment, we ensure a comfortable experience by first helping the child adjust by explaining the procedure. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and calming options like oral sedation or laughing gas are available to ease any anxiety. The filling process involves removing the decay, filling the cavity with the composite material, and using a special blue light to quickly harden the filling. This gentle approach ensures that the procedure is straightforward and stress-free, effectively restoring the tooth’s structure while prioritizing your child’s comfort.

When a cavity is too extensive for a traditional filling, a crown may be the best solution to restore your child’s tooth.

Crowns provide a durable option for teeth with significant decay, helping to prevent breakage. Stainless steel crowns, often called “silver” crowns, are the most common choice in pediatric dentistry. They are durable, covered by most major insurances, and ideal for baby teeth when appearance is less of a concern. For front teeth, we offer crowns with a white, pre-veneered facing for a more natural appearance. The procedure begins with laughing gas and a numbing agent for comfort. After shaping the tooth, the crown is fitted and secured with special cement. While some sensitivity may occur afterward, discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Pediatric tooth extractions are surgical removals of primary teeth necessitated by severe decay, trauma, or infections, particularly for molars that are more prone to decay.

The process typically involves local anesthesia to numb the area while the child remains awake, with oral sedatives available for anxious children. X-rays assess the tooth’s position and potential complications. During the extraction, the tooth is removed, gauze is applied to control bleeding, and sutures may be used if necessary. If primary molars are extracted, space maintainers may be recommended to ensure proper alignment of permanent teeth. Recovery usually involves mild pain and swelling, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that involves removing part of the pulp from a primary (baby) tooth to treat or prevent an abscess.

This is typically performed when a deep cavity reaches the nerve of a baby tooth, allowing the tooth to be preserved until it naturally falls out.

The procedure begins with X-rays, followed by the application of a local anesthetic to numb the area. Dr. Schmidt then makes an opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp and treats the remaining healthy pulp with medication. The opening is sealed with a temporary filling until a permanent crown can be placed. A follow-up visit is recommended to ensure proper healing.