Examinations, Cleanings, Fluoride and Xrays
We believe that early care and supervision of your child’s mouth helps maintain a healthy smile. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that all children from ages 1 and up receive dental examinations, cleanings and fluoride. When needed, xrays are also performed to check the areas of your child’s mouth that can’t be seen during an examination. These appointments are an opportunity for your child to get comfortable having someone looking at their teeth and meeting our staff. We hope these are the only appointments your child ever needs because they are cavity free.
Sealants
When your child’s permanent molars begin growing (around the age of 6 years), we watch them closely for signs that they are at risk of developing cavities in the grooves. When we see those indicators, we recommend placing a tooth-colored sealant over the grooves to help keep out food and bacteria, which reduces the risks of cavities on that portion of the tooth. Sealants do need to be replaced periodically as the edges get worn away from chewing.
Fillings, Crowns, and Extractions
When cavities have found their way into the tooth, treatment is required to stop the progression of the infection, reduce the chances of an abscessed tooth or to cure an abscess. If the cavities are small, white fillings are typically recommended. If the cavities are too large to hold a filling securely or are in a part of the tooth that is hard to monitor, then crowns are typically indicated. Front teeth can be covered with all white crowns while back teeth benefit from the durability of a silver, stainless steel crown. If abscesses have developed, then extractions are necessary to eliminate the infection in the bone surrounding the tooth.
Space Maintainers
If a baby tooth has to be extracted long before it is preparing to fall out, then space maintainers may be indicated. These silver appliances are similar in appearance to braces and are sometimes used to help keep the spaces open between teeth until the permanent ones are ready to grow. It is very important that sticky foods be avoided as long as space maintainers are present. The typical child keeps a space maintainer until the age of 10 or 11 while waiting for the permanent teeth to arrive in the back.
Special Needs Patients
We have the experience, patience, compassion and extra time it takes to help when a patient has special needs. Please let us help serve your child so that dental treatment can be done.
Laughing Gas, Sedation and Anesthesia
Laughing gas, sedation and general anesthesia can be a great benefit to anyone that is fearful and anxious about dental treatment. We have numerous options to offer and can discuss the best course of care based on your child’s needs. These services can be provided in the office setting as well as at Carilion New River Valley Medical Center.
Mouth Guards
Whether your child needs protection for sports activities or to prevent excessive wear from grinding at night, we have numerous options to help with protective mouth guards.
Emergencies
When your child suffers a fall or other injury to the face, has pain or swelling, we are here to help. We are prepared to care for the injuries and unexpected pain as needed.