What Treatment Options Are Available for Children That Have Multiple Cavities?
The dentist can be scary for your little one! Sometimes it's difficult to help a child understand we're on their side. We have a few methods and treatment options to make it as easy as possible! Our approach to each case depends on your child’s age and how well they cooperate in the office for treatment. Whether your child will sit well with nitrous gas (laughing gas) or needs in-office sedation or anesthesia, we're here to help. Treatment plans depend on your child's age, the extent of work needed, and how well they cooperate. Here’s a brief description of the treatment strategies we have here at Just 4 kiDDs.
Nitrous Gas (Laughing Gas)
If your child isn't anxious about treatment, nitrous gas (laughing gas) is the best! Nitrous gas causes norepinephrine to release throughout the body to inhibit pain. Plus, it also offers an anti-anxiety effect. With the nitrous and a movie playing overhead, we can begin to treat your child's teeth. Over one or a few appointments, we can complete all the extensive dental work.
In-Office Sedation
Let's say your child is extremely anxious about their dental treatment. To keep them at ease, in-office sedation could be a great solution. We offer in-office sedation for smaller cases. In-office sedation is safe. Your child will come in before they’ve had their breakfast, drink a prescribed dose of sedation medication, and as they start to feel sleepy, we’ll begin the procedure. This of course is only a quick description, so please let us know if you have any questions! We’d love to answer them.
Your child won't likely remember their dental appointment when sedated. The other benefit is avoiding hospital fees with general anesthesia. In-office sedation allow their treatment to be positive, quick, and painless. It's also an awesome way to help your child build a stress-free relationship with the dentist.
General Anesthesia
If your child has a lot of work to complete, sedation may not be the best way to proceed. Sedation works great for small cases, or for medium-sized cases split into two appointments. If your child has dental needs that are extensive, heading to the operating room at the hospital is the best solution. Under general anesthesia, we can complete your child’s dental work in a single sitting. Plus, your child won’t remember the procedure, making it an easy-going experience for your child.
Sealants
Whether your child is cavity prone or not, sealants are an incredible way to prevent future cavities. Think of sealants like little raincoats! They seal the surface of the tooth to prevent cavities and future decay. Applying a sealant coat to teeth is quick and easy. Please let us know if you have any questions about them!
Schedule an Appointment
If your child needs extensive dental work, schedule treatment as soon as you can. If you have any questions about our methods or techniques, please give us a call! We’re more than happy to help explain procedures further. At Just 4 kiDDs, we strive to give your child the best dental experiences. We'll work together to find the perfect treatment plan.