A Root Canal Doesn’t Have to Be Scary for You or Your Kid
For many people, “root canal” has long been a term that strikes fear in their hearts, often without them even understanding why. In actuality, the term root canal is simply a reference to a part of the tooth, not a dental procedure, much less a frightening one. Yet many patients still feel fear when told they need root canal treatment, and many parents are particularly nervous when they learn their children might need it. Fortunately, your pediatric dentist may offer a less invasive version of a traditional root canal treatment, particularly for young patients. It’s called a pulpotomy. (more…)
Does Your Child Need Restorative Dentistry? Part Two
Are you concerned that your child may be struggling with a dental issue, like a cavity or even an infection? It can sometimes be hard for parents to determine if their children are suffering from dental issues, because many kids are not great at communicating when there is a change to their teeth or gums. Fortunately, there are some common warning signs you can watch for, as a parent, to determine if your kids’ smiles are staying healthy. Just remember, if you do suspect there is a dental problem, it is best to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, who can help restore your kid’s smile in the case of an issue. (more…)
Does Your Child Need Restorative Dentistry? Part One
Has your son recently begun complaining about tooth pain? Does your daughter whine, while brushing her teeth, that it hurts to do so? Did you notice your son threw away most of his last ice cream cone, even though the flavor is his favorite? Have you seen your daughter holding the side of her mouth, as if in pain? If so, your child might very well need restorative dentistry. In fact, these are just a few of the potential warning signs that it is time for a child to see a restorative dentist. While it can often be difficult for a parent to know whether his or her child’s smile is healthy or not, it is possible to watch for warning signs. That way prompt treatment can be performed, if there is a burgeoning dental issue. (more…)
How Do I Know If My Kid Has a Cavity? Part Two
Now that you know common symptoms of a cavity, like grey lines, discomfort and sensitivity to hot or cold foods, are you wondering what to do if your kid develops one? It can still be difficult to diagnose a cavity, at home, especially if your children are not very observant or good at telling you when they experience dental symptoms like these. That is yet another reason regular dental checkups are so important. By taking your children to see the dentist every six months, you reduce their chances of developing cavities, in the first place. Just as importantly, though, you also increase the chance of catching any cavities that do exist, early, which can mean the difference between simple and extensive restorative treatment.
Does Your Child Need a Dental Crown?
You might think that restorative dental crowns are only necessary for adults. But crowns can actually be incredibly helpful for kids with dental issues, as well. Crowns are generally used to help protect damaged teeth, often helping to prevent infection, or worse, the need for an extraction. Though often associated with permanent teeth, dental crowns can even be used to protect damaged baby teeth, which can be helpful in allowing the permanent teeth to grow in safely and in a more proper alignment. So if your child is in need of restorative dental treatment, because of a dental issue like a cavity, trauma or some other problem, be open to the possibility of a dental crown, as a form of restoration. (more…)
Could a Dental Crown Help Correct Your Kid’s Smile?
Many parents don’t realize that adults aren’t the only ones that may require restorative dental treatment. Even children whose permanent teeth have not yet fully erupted, may struggle with issues like a dental cavity, or worse, an infection. In some cases the dentist may recommend a root canal, or a pulpotomy. But in many cases he or she may also recommend a dental crown. Crowns can protect fragile teeth, and help prevent the need for an extraction or prosthetic tooth. So if you or your child has gone through extensive restorative treatment on a tooth, or needs to have some completed soon, talk to the dentist about the benefits of following that procedure up with a dental crown. (more…)
Does Your Child Need a Pulpotomy? PartTwo
When an adult allows a cavity to progress for some time, it can lead to an infection requiring root canal treatment. But when the same cavity progression happens to a kid, most pediatric dentists recommend a less invasive approach. This often means conducting a pulpotomy, which helps remove infected portions of the tooth, while leaving the rest of the tooth safe and in tact. As a parent, if you’re worried about taking your child for restorative treatment, or just curious what that treatment will entail, here is what you need to know about pulpotomies and how they can help save your kids’ smiles. (more…)
Does Your Child Need a Pulpotomy? Part One
Ah, cavities! They are so common that nearly 90 percent of adults will experience them, and sadly, more than 40 percent of kids under twelve will also struggle with them. Prompt treatment can make recovery simple, though. Often all that is required to restore the smile, after a cavity, is a simple filling. Unfortunately, the longer a person delays treatment, the more likely extensive treatment will be required. In some cases, particularly with kids, this means a pulpotomy. Though the term may sound scary, understanding what it actually entails can help you discuss the treatment with your kids in a way that will make them feel comfortable, and confident as they receive this smile-saving restorative treatment. (more…)
Have a Cavity? How a Tooth-colored Filling Can Help
Whether it is you or your child that has developed a cavity, you probably already know that it’s time to see the dentist. Prompt restorative treatment is important with dental issues, because it helps stop decay and prevent worsening issues like an infection or even the need for an extraction. But what you may not realize is that a filling no longer means unsightly metal. Tooth-colored fillings provide a safe and more esthetically-pleasing restoration, compared to metal fillings, so that you, or your child, can smile both comfortably and confidently! (more…)
All About Cavities
Do you spend what feels like a significant amount of time trying to protect your child’s smile from cavities? Do you limit sugar, give your child water instead of soft drinks or juice, and do your best to keep up with preventive care? If so, you’re doing a good job of helping your child avoid dental fillings. However, for your most successful experience, we suggest you learn more about how cavities form – and how you may reverse them.