Dental Procedures
Dental procedures for children
Sometimes it’s inevitable that your little one might end up with dental issues, but don’t worry, we’re skilled and well-equipped to deal with these.
It’s important to us that you and your child feel comfortable in our practice before every dental procedure. We know that this can be a daunting situation, but we always take the time to carefully explain all the details relating to your child’s procedure so you understand what is involved. This way, you’ll feel happier and more confident knowing your child is in our experienced and capable hands.
Common dental procedures for children
Our office and team are equipped to perform most dental procedures. Here are some of the most common procedures performed:
Fillings
A tooth-coloured filling can be placed in a primary or permanent tooth. It may cover one or more surfaces of the tooth. Fillings are required when a tooth has formed a cavity or where the tooth may not have formed properly. The decay or soft part of the tooth is removed, the tooth thoroughly cleaned and a filling placed to restore the shape and function of the tooth.
Fissure Sealants
Many teeth have deep fissures which cannot be cleaned sufficiently with a toothbrush bristle. Bacteria in the mouth can penetrate the fissures and eventually cause decay. A fissure sealant is a strong, resin-based material that is applied to the deep grooves (or fissures) and provides a protective barrier against tooth decay. Fissure sealants keep your child’s teeth healthy and can prevent the need for fillings.
Pulpotomy
The living centre of a tooth contains nerves and blood vessels and is called the dental pulp. A pulpotomy is recommended when the tooth decay reaches the pulp of the tooth. It is a procedure where all of the crown's dental pulp is removed and the remaining pulpal tissue is covered with a special dressing that promotes healing. The tooth is then usually restored with a crown.
Tooth Extractions
An extraction of a tooth is recommended when the tooth is unable to be restored with normal filling materials or crowns due to advanced tooth decay, dental trauma, or as a result of infection. Extracting a tooth is the last resort after all other treatment has been considered. Extraction of teeth may also be required as part of an orthodontic problem where there is insufficient space in the jaws to accommodate all of the teeth.
Dental X-rays
X-rays (radiographs) may be necessary to complete a thorough examination as they show the dentist areas that are not visible to the eye. The type and number of x-rays required is determined following our initial clinical assessment or review of your child’s previous x-rays (if applicable). We try to reduce your child’s exposure to ionising radiation and are always critical of the use of x-rays. Our Paediatric Dentists like to ensure the maximum amount of information is gained from minimum exposure to radiation.
Crowns
Stainless Steel Crown
A tooth-coloured filling can be placed in a primary or permanent tooth. It may cover one or more surfaces of the tooth. Fillings are required when a tooth has formed a cavity or where the tooth may not have formed properly. The decay or soft part of the tooth is removed, the tooth thoroughly cleaned and a filling placed to restore the shape and function of the tooth.
Zirconia Crown
Many teeth have deep fissures which cannot be cleaned sufficiently with a toothbrush bristle. Bacteria in the mouth can penetrate the fissures and eventually cause decay. A fissure sealant is a strong, resin-based material that is applied to the deep grooves (or fissures) and provides a protective barrier against tooth decay. Fissure sealants keep your child’s teeth healthy and can prevent the need for fillings.
Composite Crown
A composite crown is a tooth-coloured covering which wraps around the entire crown of a front tooth, making it look like a healthy tooth again. A composite resin (or strip) crown is used to repair front teeth that have been damaged by decay, malformation, discolouration or injury. Because the tooth-coloured material wraps around the entire tooth surface, it is much stronger and longer lasting than normal fillings which only cover part of a tooth.