Examination: An examination involves more than looking at teeth. The health history reviews the general health of your child and indicates whether there is any need for special dental care. The examination charts health and disease and is used to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan for your child.

 

Cleaning and Fluoride: Teeth are cleaned to remove plaque (bacteria) and calculus (hard plaque) that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Topical fluoride is applied to the teeth to make them stronger and more resistant to tooth decay. A thorough cleaning and fluoride treatment every six months has been shown to be an extremely effective way to prevent dental disease.

 

Oral Hygiene Instructions: Prevention is the most important part of our practice. We will provide you and your child with dental hygiene instructions that will help maintain good oral health at home.

 

Bitewing Radiographs: Bitewings are used to determine the health of the teeth and bone. Cavities and unusual tooth shape and size are apparent on the bitewings.

 

Pulp Treatment: is necessary when decay has spread to the nerve of the tooth. The procedure consists of treating the nerve of the tooth to avoid extracting the tooth.

 

Extractions: are done only as a last resort. If a primary molar is removed prematurely, a space maintainer will be placed. Teeth may also be extracted for orthodontic reasons.

 

Space Maintainers: are used when a primary tooth has been prematurely lost to hold space for the permanent tooth. If space is not maintained, teeth on either side of the extraction site can drift into the space and prevent the permanent tooth from erupting.

 

Conscious Sedation: Young children who are very anxious may require in-office sedation. Parents will be given more detailed information.

 

General Anesthesia:  IV sedation is offered for very young children or children with high anxiety or behavior that cannot be managed with mild sedation.

 

Interceptive Orthodontics: Correction of minor Orthodontics problems such as a cross bite can be done with simple appliances.

 

Nitrous Oxide: May be required to relax very apprehensive patients and patients with gag reflexes. It is given through a small breathing mask which is placed over the child’s nose, allowing them to relax, but without putting them to sleep.

 

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recognizes this technique as a very safe, effective technique to use for treating children’s dental needs. The gas is mild, easily taken, then with normal breathing, it is quickly eliminated from the body. It is non-addictive. While inhaling nitrous oxide/oxygen, your child remains fully conscious and keeps all natural reflexes.