RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
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What is dental restoration for kids?
Just like you take your child to a pediatrician for their medical needs, it's important to take them to a pediatric dentist for their dental care. At our pediatric dental practice, our experienced staff is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for your child's specific dental needs. Our pediatric dentists have undergone an additional two to three years of intensive training after completing their dental school program, which includes specialized clinical instruction and a deepened understanding of children and their unique needs. This additional training allows us to provide comprehensive dental care for your child's smile, from their first tooth eruption through young adulthood.
What are the most common dental problems in children?
Tooth decay (cavities) remains the most prevalent dental issue among children, affecting even toddlers and infants who consume sugary drinks from bottles or sippy cups. Other common problems include premature tooth loss, which can affect permanent tooth alignment; developmental abnormalities like ectopic eruption where teeth emerge in unusual positions; gum disease presenting as swelling, redness or bleeding; dental trauma from falls or sports activities; and malocclusion issues such as overbites or underbites that may require early orthodontic intervention. Tooth sensitivity, particularly after consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods, can indicate enamel erosion or exposed dentin. Additionally, persistent thumb-sucking or pacifier use beyond age four can lead to dental alignment issues, while teeth grinding (bruxism) is surprisingly common in children, potentially causing worn enamel, jaw pain, and headaches if left unaddressed.
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What is the most common type of pediatric dental restoration treatments?
Dental fillings are the most common type of pediatric dental restoration treatments, with tooth-colored composite fillings being particularly favored in modern pediatric dentistry. These restorations are frequently used to treat cavities by removing decay and filling the space with durable materials that match the child's natural teeth. Other common pediatric restorations include stainless steel crowns for severely damaged primary molars, pulpotomies (baby root canals) to save infected baby teeth while preserving the developing permanent tooth underneath, and space maintainers when primary teeth are lost prematurely. Pediatric dentists prioritize conservative approaches that preserve natural tooth structure while ensuring proper oral function and development until permanent teeth emerge. These treatments are specially adapted to children's unique dental needs, using child-friendly techniques and materials designed specifically for primary teeth.
RESTORATIVE SERVICES
Extractions
Pulpotomy
Crowns
Fillings
Common Pediatric Dental Restoration Treatments at Tooth Patrol
At Tooth Patrol Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in gentle, effective restoration techniques designed specifically for children's unique dental needs. Our pediatric dentists are experts in preserving your child's smile while ensuring optimal oral health and development.
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Pulpotomy: Saving Infected Baby Teeth
When untreated cavities or dental trauma allow bacteria to reach the soft inner pulp of your child's tooth, a pulpotomy becomes necessary. This common procedure, sometimes called a "baby root canal," involves carefully removing the infected portion of the tooth's pulp, applying special medication to preserve the remaining healthy pulp, and sealing the tooth with a protective filling or crown. This treatment helps prevent premature tooth loss, preserving the natural space for permanent teeth and avoiding potential alignment issues that could affect your child's developing smile.
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Dental Crowns: Complete Protection
For severely damaged primary teeth, Tooth Patrol offers two excellent crown options. Silver stainless steel crowns provide an economical and exceptionally durable solution ideal for back molars not visible when smiling, offering excellent protection against further decay. For a more natural appearance, especially for visible front teeth, white crowns deliver an esthetic option customized to match surrounding teeth. Both crown types provide superior strength, durability, and protection while maintaining proper bite function and supporting your child's oral development until permanent teeth emerge.
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Tooth-Colored Fillings: Beautiful Repairs
Our composite (white) fillings are nearly invisible, blending seamlessly with your child's natural teeth. These modern restorations match the exact color of your child's teeth, bond directly to tooth structure requiring less drilling, contain no mercury or metal components, and actually strengthen the remaining tooth structure. While slightly more expensive than traditional silver fillings, composite restorations offer superior esthetics with comparable durability, making them the preferred choice for most parents who want their children to maintain confidence in their smiles while effectively treating decay.
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Gentle Extractions: When Necessary
Sometimes, a tooth may be too damaged to save. Our pediatric specialists are trained to make extractions as comfortable as possible by using child-friendly language to explain the procedure, providing appropriate anesthesia or sedation options, creating a calm, reassuring environment, and offering detailed aftercare instructions. Our office is designed with children in mind, featuring colorful décor and friendly staff to help ease any dental anxiety your child might experience during treatment, ensuring that even necessary extractions can be a positive experience in their dental journey.
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If you suspect your child needs dental restoration, contact Tooth Patrol Pediatric Dentistry today. Our team is committed to providing gentle, effective care in a kid-friendly environment that prioritizes your child's comfort and long-term oral health.