Restorative
Tooth Colored Fillings (Mercury Free)
White (or “composite”) restorations are a good option for fillings in both front and back teeth. We make sure to use latest dental materials available to ensure a good, safe and long lasting filling.
Pulp Treatment (Baby Root Canal)
A pulpotomy may be indicated in baby teeth where the cavity has reached the nerve and blood vessels (or “pulp”) that are in the center of the tooth. This is a nerve treatment where the infected pulp is removed and a material is placed that prevents the infection from spreading. The goal of the pulpotomy is to maintain the tooth without pain or infection until it falls out naturally.
Crowns
When a cavity is very large, a pulpotomy has been performed, or the tooth has developmental defects which weaken the enamel, a stainless steel crown may be indicated. The stainless steel crown is recommended when failure of other restorative materials, such as white colored composite, is likely. The crowns that we use for the front teeth (and in some circumstances, back teeth as well) are tooth colored, depending on each individuals needs.
Care After A Filling Or A Crown
Follow instructions given by our office and take precaution if your child is still anesthetized. You may brush your teeth this evening. Avoid sticky foods like taffy and tootsie rolls. Also avoid chewing hard foods such as taffy, gum, and popcorn.
Care of The Mouth After Local Anesthetic
Often children do not understand the effects of local anesthesia and may chew, scratch, suck, or play with the numb lip, tongue, or cheek. These actions can cause swelling and abrasions to the tissue. Monitor your child closely for approximately two hours following the appointment. Keep your child on a liquid diet until the anesthesia has worn off.
Please do not hesitate to call the office if there are any questions.