Dental treatments for children

Treatment of Dental Decay: For uncomplicated dental caries, which are typically limited to the enamel or affect both enamel and dentin but are not deeply seated, a straightforward treatment approach is often sufficient and can be completed in a single session. 

The treatment involves removing the decayed dental tissue using rotary handpieces and specialized manual instruments, preparing the cavity for restoration, and finally, applying dental filling materials to restore the tooth’s structure. To ensure comfort during the procedure, sedation via inhalation may be provided. 

Endodontic Therapy: In cases where dental caries have progressed deep into the pulp chamber, affecting the nerve tissue, root canal treatment becomes necessary. This procedure typically involves multiple sessions during which the pediatric dentist applies various disinfectant and devitalizing dressings to treat the affected pulp. 

The treatment culminates in the obturation of the root canals of primary teeth (yes, primary teeth have roots and nerves similar to permanent teeth) and coronal reconstruction. In some instances, reconstructions may involve prefabricated metallic or zirconium pediatric crowns. 

Extraction of Primary Teeth: When extraction of a primary tooth is indicated before its natural replacement by a permanent tooth, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia by a specialized pediatric dentist. This approach helps prevent damage to the bud of the permanent tooth. 

If a primary tooth needs removal well before its natural replacement time, a “space maintainer” may be placed on adjacent teeth to preserve the necessary space for the eruption of the permanent successor tooth. 

Pedodontic Crowns: Prefabricated pedodontic crowns come in various materials such as metal, metal with composite veneers, zirconia, and more. They are designed to fully restore teeth affected by moderate to deep caries, serving to restore and safeguard the dental structure resulting from complex dental procedures. These crowns ensure the tooth’s functionality and maintain its position within the dental arch until it is naturally replaced by a permanent tooth. 

Dental Prophylaxis: Dental prophylaxis, encompassing professional brushing, scaling, airflow therapy, and fluoridation, ranks among the most crucial preventive measures against dental caries, alongside dental sealants. For children and adolescents, prophylaxis and routine check-ups are typically recommended every three months or as advised by the pediatric dentist. Regular dental visits promote excellent dental hygiene, proper brushing techniques, and can reduce the incidence of caries by over 80%. 

Braces: Certain habits like pacifier use, bottle feeding, thumb sucking, and infantile swallowing can necessitate dental braces from an early age. A pedodontist can identify these detrimental habits and other dento-maxillary anomalies early on and may recommend consultation with an orthodontist for further evaluation and treatment. 

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