Pediatric Dentistry
Cleanings and Fluoride
Oral health has significant importance in the overall health of your child. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends children see a dentist at least twice a year to examine the mouth/teeth, provide preventive care, and provide dental treatment when needed. By keeping a regular schedule for dental cleanings and exams, dental problems can either be avoided or detected early. The AAPD recommends the first dental visit by age 1 year.
Fillings
Dental fillings are needed when a tooth has a cavity (decay). The dentist will remove the decay and place a filling in the tooth to replace the missing tooth structure. At JOP, we offer composite (“white”/tooth-colored) fillings.
Sealants
Dental sealants are a highly effective preventative measure for protecting molar teeth (back teeth) from cavities. A thin coating is placed on the biting surface of the molar tooth to prevent food from settling in the grooves. Typically, sealants are only placed on permanent (“adult”) teeth and not on primary (“baby”) teeth.
Crowns
Sometimes dental cavities (decay) are so big that a filling cannot be placed in the tooth because too much of the tooth is missing. When this happens, a crown may be recommended to cover over the remaining tooth structure once the cavity has been removed.
Extractions
Sometimes teeth need to be extracted. Common reasons for extraction include: large cavity, dental infection, a baby tooth that is blocking a permanent tooth or severe dental crowding. If your child needs an extraction, our goal is to ease any concerns you or your child may have about the procedure and provide treatment in a calm atmosphere.
SDF (Silver Diamine Fluoride)
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a newer treatment option for dental cavities (decay). It is sometimes recommended for very young patients with dental decay who may not be able to tolerate traditional dental treatment such as fillings or crowns. If this option is appropriate for your child, Dr. Johnson will discuss this treatment with you.
Here is a link from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry that provides more information about SDF
Nitrous Oxide “Laughing Gas”
Laughing Gas (nitrous oxide) is a safe and effective adjunct treatment routinely used in Pediatric Dentistry. It helps to reduce anxiety and minimize discomfort for cooperative patients during dental treatment. Your child will breath in a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide if laughing gas is used during the appointment.