At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we understand that dental procedures can sometimes be intimidating for both children and their parents. We believe that a positive dental experience is key to encouraging lifelong healthy habits. That’s why we work hard to make every visit, whether it’s for a routine checkup or a more complex procedure, as stress-free and comfortable as possible. In this blog, we will explain some of the most common pediatric dental procedures, including fillings, crowns and extractions. We’ll also provide our patients in Chattanooga, Signal Mountain, Cleveland, Jasper and Ooltewah TN, and Dalton, Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe, Trenton and Athens, GA with an idea of what they can expect during these procedures.
Fillings: Treating Cavities to Preserve Healthy Teeth
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems for children. When a tooth develops a cavity, it means that decay has created a hole in the tooth, which can lead to further damage and pain if left untreated. Fillings are a necessary treatment to restore the tooth’s function and prevent the decay from spreading.
Why are Fillings Necessary?
Fillings are used to restore teeth that have been affected by decay. They are particularly important because untreated cavities can lead to tooth loss, infections, or the need for more extensive dental procedures. In addition to treating the decay, fillings can also help preserve the tooth’s structure, allowing the tooth to function as normal.
What Happens During a Filling Procedure?
When your child needs a filling, the process is straightforward and usually completed in a single visit. The dentist will begin by numbing the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure your child remains comfortable throughout the procedure. Once the area is numb, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth, creating space for the filling. The cavity will then be filled with a material, which can vary depending on the size and location of the cavity. After the filling is placed, the dentist will smooth it out and polish the tooth to make sure it blends in seamlessly with the natural teeth.
The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes. Afterward, your child may experience some mild sensitivity, but this generally goes away within a few days. Your child can return to their regular activities as soon as the procedure is complete.
Extractions: Removing Problematic Teeth for Better Oral Health
Although tooth extractions are often thought of as a last resort, there are times when they are necessary to ensure your child’s overall oral health. Extractions are most commonly performed when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or infected, and when there is no way to save it.
Why Are Extractions Necessary?
Tooth extractions may be needed for several reasons. Sometimes, a baby tooth may be preventing the permanent tooth from erupting properly. In other cases, a tooth may be so damaged by decay or injury that it cannot be repaired with a filling or crown. Extractions may also be recommended before orthodontic treatments to make space for the teeth to shift into the correct positions.
What Happens During an Extraction Procedure?
The extraction process begins with numbing the area around the tooth using a local anesthetic. For more complex extractions, your child may be given a sedative to help them relax. Once the area is numb, the dentist will gently loosen the tooth and remove it. In more complicated cases, such as impacted teeth, the dentist may need to make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
After the extraction, your child will be given instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including tips on managing any discomfort and keeping the area clean. Mild swelling and discomfort are common, but they typically go away within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any pain, and following the dentist’s aftercare instructions is crucial to ensuring proper healing.
Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Revision: Improving Oral Function and Comfort
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) and lip-tie are conditions where the tissues connecting the tongue or upper lip to the mouth are shorter or tighter than usual, which can restrict movement. These issues can lead to feeding difficulties, speech problems and oral health complications if not addressed. Fortunately, a simple procedure called a revision can help improve your child’s comfort and function.
Why is Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Revision Needed?
When a child has a tongue-tie, the restricted movement of the tongue can make breastfeeding difficult, often leading to latch problems and discomfort for both mother and baby. For older children, tongue-tie can cause issues with speech and oral hygiene. Similarly, a lip-tie can cause difficulties in breastfeeding, as well as issues with brushing the teeth or even playing wind instruments.
What Happens During the Revision Procedure?
The revision procedure is typically quick and minimally invasive. For younger children, it can often be done with a gentle laser or scalpel to release the tissue that is restricting the tongue or lip movement. The procedure is usually performed with local anesthesia to ensure your child is comfortable. After the tissue is released, your child will experience a short recovery time, though you may need to assist with exercises or stretches to prevent reattachment and ensure proper healing.
For older children or those with more severe cases, the procedure might be slightly more involved, but still minimally invasive and done with your child’s comfort in mind. This simple yet effective procedure can significantly improve your child’s ability to eat, speak and maintain better oral hygiene.
Sedation Dentistry: Ensuring Comfort for Fearful or Anxious Children
Dental visits can sometimes be intimidating for children, particularly when more complex procedures are involved. Sedation dentistry is an option that allows children to remain calm and comfortable during their dental treatments, helping to reduce fear and anxiety associated with dental visits.
Why is Sedation Dentistry Used?
Sedation dentistry is often recommended for children who experience dental anxiety, have special needs, or require a longer or more complicated dental procedure. Sedation helps keep children relaxed, allowing the dentist to perform the necessary treatment without interruption. This ensures that the child’s dental care is both effective and efficient, while also minimizing the stress for both the child and their parents.
What Happens During Sedation Dentistry?
There are different levels of sedation that can be used depending on the procedure and the child’s needs. These may include:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This is the most common and least invasive form of sedation. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask, helping your child relax and feel comfortable without putting them to sleep. It wears off quickly after the procedure is completed, allowing your child to return to normal activities right away.
- Oral Sedation: For children who need a stronger level of sedation, oral medication can be given prior to the appointment to help them relax. The medication will make your child feel drowsy, but they will remain awake and responsive during the procedure. After the procedure, they may feel groggy for a little while, but this effect usually wears off by the next day.
- IV Sedation or General Anesthesia: In some cases, if a child has more extensive work to be done or experiences high levels of anxiety, sedation may be administered through an IV or general anesthesia. These methods ensure that the child is completely relaxed or asleep during the procedure.
Your child’s safety and comfort are the primary focus, and our team will carefully evaluate which sedation option is best suited for them based on their medical history, the procedure, and their level of anxiety.
Dental Sealants: Protecting Teeth from Decay
Dental sealants are a preventive measure used to protect the chewing surfaces of a child’s back teeth (molars) from decay. These teeth have deep grooves where food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped, leading to cavities. Dental sealants provide a protective barrier to keep these areas clean and reduce the risk of cavities.
Why Are Dental Sealants Needed?
Children’s back teeth, particularly their molars, are more susceptible to decay due to their deep grooves and fissures. Even with proper brushing, it can be difficult to clean these areas thoroughly. Dental sealants help prevent cavities by creating a smooth, protective surface over these grooves, keeping food particles and bacteria at bay.
What Happens During the Dental Sealant Procedure?
Applying dental sealants is a fast, simple, and entirely painless procedure. During the procedure, the dentist will first clean the child’s teeth to remove any plaque or debris. Once the teeth are dry and clean, the sealant material (a thin plastic coating) is applied to the grooves of the molars. The dentist will then harden the sealant with a special light. Once set, the sealant forms a strong, durable shield that can last for several years.
There is no downtime after the procedure, and your child can eat and drink as usual. It’s important to follow up with regular dental visits to ensure the sealants remain intact and effective. Sealants are an excellent preventive measure, significantly reducing the likelihood of cavities in those hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
Preparing Your Child for Dental Procedures
While most children handle dental procedures very well, it’s natural to feel nervous about an upcoming visit. Here are a few tips to help ease your child’s nerves:
- Talk to Your Child: Before the appointment, explain the procedure in a simple, positive way. Reassure them that the dentist is there to help and that the procedure will not hurt.
- Stay Calm: Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions, so staying calm and positive can help your child feel more at ease.
- Comfort Items: Bring your child’s favorite stuffed animal or blanket to provide extra comfort during the procedure.
- Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, be sure to follow any aftercare instructions carefully. This includes offering soft foods, pain management options and ensuring your child rests as needed.
Final Thoughts
Fillings, crowns and extractions are common dental procedures that may be necessary to ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy and strong. At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we strive to make each visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible, offering expert care that both children and parents can trust. If your child requires any of these procedures, rest assured that our team will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience every step of the way.
Request Your Consultation in Tennessee or Georgia Today
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s dental health or upcoming procedures, don’t hesitate to request your child’s appointment. At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we proudly serve the Hamilton, Bradley and McMinn counties in Tennessee and Whitfield, Catoosa, Marion and Dade Counties in Georgia.
