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(678) 305-1090
EXPLANATION OF DENTAL
PROCEDURES
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.
Panoramic Radiographs: A panoramic radiograph provides an
overall view of your child's mouth and jaws. It reveals missing
permanent teeth, extra teeth, abnormal growths, and other problems.
A panoramic is normally taken every 3 - 5 years in 3 stages of
dental development.
Sealants: The chewing surfaces of children's teeth are the
most susceptible to cavities and least benefited by fluorides.
Sealants (plastic coatings) are applied to the tops of teeth and are
highly effective in preventing tooth decay.
Silver Fillings: Silver fillings are used to restore or
"fill" decay in teeth. A tooth has five surfaces (the chewing
surface and four sides). The decay may involve any or all of these
surfaces.
Tooth Colored Fillings: are used to restore front teeth or
where cosmetic appearance is important. Tooth colored fillings are
used to repair fractured teeth and/or areas of decay. The shade of
restorative material is matched as closely as possible to the color
of the natural teeth. Tooth colored fillings may also be used for
back teeth.
Stainless Steel Crowns: are used to restore back teeth that
are too badly decayed to hold silver fillings.
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.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): May be required to relax very
apprehensive patients.
Conscious Sedation: Young children who are very anxious may
require in-office sedation. Parents will be given more detailed
information.
General Anesthesia: Children with extensive dental needs and
special medical conditions may require treatment in the hospital,
under general anesthesia. Parents will be given more detailed
information.
Interceptive Orthodontics: Correction of minor Orthodontics
problems such as a cross bite can be done with simple appliances.
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