Treatment of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When children consume sugary or starchy foods and drinks, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Preventing tooth decay involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and visiting our dentists regularly for checkups and cleanings. Additionally, limiting sugary snacks and drinks can significantly reduce the risk of decay and help keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong.

White dental fillings, also known as composite fillings, are used to treat smaller cavities on both back and front teeth. They are made of a tooth-colored resin material that blends with the natural tooth color, making them an excellent choice for visible areas. These fillings restore the tooth’s function and appearance, providing a durable solution for minor decay and helping maintain your child’s confident smile.

Stainless steel crowns are used for larger cavities typically found in the back teeth. These crowns are pre-formed and fitted over the entire tooth to provide strong and durable protection. They are especially useful for primary teeth that will eventually fall out, as they hold up well to the pressures of chewing and grinding. This treatment helps preserve the tooth until it naturally falls out to make way for a permanent tooth.

A pulpotomy, or baby tooth root canal, is a dental procedure used when the root pulp of a baby tooth has been exposed due to damage or decay. During a pulpotomy, the infected pulp tissue is removed, and the remaining healthy pulp is treated and sterilized to prevent further infection. This procedure helps save the tooth from extraction and maintains its function until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. It is an essential treatment to avoid more invasive procedures and maintain your child’s dental health.

Pulp capping is an endodontic treatment used to cover and protect the pulp tissue, which is the inner layer of the tooth, before it reaches the root canal. This procedure is performed to prevent infection and avoid more intensive treatments. By placing a protective cap over the pulp, we can promote healing and preserve the tooth’s vitality. Pulp capping is especially beneficial in saving a tooth from further decay and potential extraction, maintaining your child’s oral health.

Tooth extractions are necessary when a cavity has severely damaged the tooth structure, making restoration impossible. If your child needs a tooth extraction, our dentists and team will ensure the procedure is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. After the extraction, we may recommend a space maintainer to keep the surrounding teeth in place and prevent alignment issues as your child grows. This approach helps maintain proper dental spacing for the eventual eruption of permanent teeth, ensuring your child’s ongoing oral health.