Common Pediatric Dental Treatments

Pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty that specifically addresses children's unique oral health care needs. At our practice, we understand that children’s teeth need special attention. An array of treatments are offered to children that help them maintain good dental health. Listed below are major dental treatments facilitated for children. 

Cavity Prevention

Providing your child with a nutritious, balanced diet will help prevent cavities. However, you should still help your child brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day. You should also schedule their dental appointments every six months, or more often if they need it.

Dental Filling

If a baby tooth is damaged by decay, a dentist may recommend a filling. This is a quick, painless procedure that requires only minimal drilling and local anesthetic. The restoration is color-matched to the tooth and is blended in so that it is not noticeable.

Pulp Therapy

A pediatric dentist specializes in treating dental issues that are specific to children. This includes determining if a child needs to have a pulpotomy (or extraction of diseased pulp) or pulpectomy (or removal of all pulp tissue).

A pulpotomy is the removal of the diseased pulp. A pulpotomy is performed when the pulp tissue is damaged or infected and is affecting the primary tooth. If left untreated, the pulp tissue could decay and cause an infection in the core of the tooth.

In pulpotomy treatment, the pediatric dentist will numb the area surrounding the tooth before removing any diseased pulp. Afterward, the pulp tissue is replaced with a biocompatible material and a dental crown is often used to prevent the tooth from experiencing further damage.

Space Maintainers

Space maintainers are used to protect developing permanent teeth. A space maintainer can be used when the primary (baby) tooth falls out too early and a permanent tooth has yet to erupt. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the space maintainer helps to prevent other teeth from drifting into that space.

Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is sometimes necessary for children. It can help correct misaligned teeth or jaw problems. Braces, aligners and retainers are typically worn to help correct these issues.

Oral Surgery

If your child requires oral surgery, the dentist will carefully explain your child’s condition, treatment and follow-up care. Your child’s comfort and safety are their number one priority.

Ygnacio Dental is located at 1766 Lacassie Ave, Suite 101, Walnut Creek, CA 94596. Call (925) 280-2848 to schedule an appointment.