Fixing Cavities and Saving Smiles
The earlier pediatric cavities are diagnosed, the less damage they can do. Call us today.
If left unaddressed, even a small cavity can lead to the loss of a tooth, or even teeth, if the decay spreads. At Lake Jeanette Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we focus on catching cavities early and opting for the least invasive—but most effective—options possible.
When it comes to fixing cavities, we have a few restorative approaches to treat and correct any existing tooth damage and prevent further dental loss.
Customized Options
Our dentists recognize that every smile is different, and so every cavity requires a unique approach. Through semi-annual cleanings and exams, we’ll keep close tabs on your child’s oral health and developing smile. At the first sign of a problem, we’ll create a customized plan to resolve it. Here are a few different ways we can fix cavities:
Increased Fluoride Applications
One of the most conservative treatment options is simply increasing fluoride applications. If a beginning cavity has yet to develop through the enamel, then increased fluoride applications can help to re-mineralize the existing tooth structure or prevent the cavity from progressing.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
If a cavity has progressed through the enamel and a tooth-colored filling is not warranted then silver diamine fluoride can help harden the tooth structure softened by decay. The uses of silver fluoride include stopping tooth decay from progressing and keeping the affected teeth stable until a dentist determines if further action is necessary to preserve the health of the teeth.
Tooth-colored fillings
Once a cavity has developed through the enamel, it’s important to take immediate steps to minimize damage to the tooth and gums. This filling type is a popular option since it’s discreet. The resin closely matches the color of real teeth!
It’s an excellent choice for cavities formed in visible areas of the mouth, such as the front teeth. There’s also minimal expansion and contraction when exposed to hot and cold liquids and a lower risk of fracture over time.
Dental crowns
An excellent choice for broken teeth or to improve the look of a discolored crown, this procedure creates a brand-new surface for teeth and is a more durable option than fillings since it covers a larger area of the tooth.
Our dental crowns are made of stainless steel or zirconia. They also offer greater protection against cavities and other damage.
Stainless-Steel Crowns
Long-lasting and extremely resilient, stainless steel crowns have proven to be very durable and well suited to most patients. They were developed especially for use in primary teeth restorations and don’t prevent or obstruct permanent teeth development.
However, as the name implies, they are also stainless steel in color and may at times be noticeable depending on where they’re used. We generally use stainless-steel crowns on back teeth.
Fighting Pediatric Dental Decay One Tooth at a Time
Our team at Lake Jeanette Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry will work closely with you to determine the best option for fixing your child’s cavities. We can also provide a comprehensive dental maintenance plan to prevent or minimize the chance of future cavity formation and offer other preventive measures.
If cost is an issue, we have several payment options and can help find a plan that fits your budget. We offer flexible hours for your convenience, as well, and our friendly and relaxed atmosphere is designed to put patients of all ages at ease. We’ll work hard to keep you smiling!
Come see us at Lake Jeanette Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, or if you’d like to know more about tooth-colored fillings and crowns or stainless-steel crowns, call us at 336-286-0200.