Pulp therapy or root canal treatment

At Toddlers TeethH Kids & Teens Dentistry, it’s important to understand that while a tooth may appear solid on the outside, the core consists of soft tissue known as the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and other vital tissues. If a cavity becomes severe enough to reach the pulp, treatment options like a root canal or pulp therapy are necessary..

After the procedure, a crown is placed to protect the weakened tooth and maintain its position until the permanent adult tooth emerges. Depending on the location of the tooth, the crown may be made of stainless steel or a white cosmetic material. These crowns are not intended to be permanent like adult fillings and crowns but serve to safeguard the tooth during this transitional period..

Tooth decay & root canal treatment

Tooth decay is a gradual process in which bacteria break down the tooth enamel, leading to cavities. If untreated, decay can reach the dentin and eventually the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. When decay infects the pulp, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and even an abscess. .

This often necessitates root canal treatment, a procedure in which the infected pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and sealed, and the tooth is restored to prevent further infection. Root canals are a common and effective way to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Regular dental care and early intervention can help prevent the need for a root canal by addressing decay before it reaches the pulp...

Sealants

Sealants are protective coatings applied to surfaces, often used in dental care and construction. In dentistry, they help prevent cavities by sealing grooves in teeth, while in construction, they protect joints and surfaces from moisture, air, and debris. Their primary function is to provide a barrier, enhancing durability and longevity, whether for teeth or building materials..

Barrier

Cavity Prevention

Versatile Applications

Cost-Effective Solution

When are sealants placed?

Dental sealants are typically applied when a child’s first permanent molar erupts. These sealants provide essential protection for the permanent teeth, helping to prevent cavities. They can also be used for adults who are at high risk for developing dental caries. Sealants are durable and can last for several years, but they can be reapplied as needed when the old sealants begin to wear down.

Pit and fissure sealants

Pit and fissure sealants are a preventive dental treatment used to protect the deep grooves, pits, and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth, particularly molars and premolars, from decay. These areas are prone to cavities because they are hard to clean and easily trap food particles and bacteria. Sealants are typically made of resin-based, glass ionomer, or bioactive materials that are applied to the tooth's surface after cleaning and etching. The sealant flows into the grooves, forming a protective barrier that prevents bacteria and acids from causing decay.

This treatment is most commonly applied to children and adolescents but can also benefit adults at high risk for cavities. Sealants are durable and can last for several years, providing effective protection against tooth decay..

Digital X-rays

Panoramic and Regular X-rays

At Toddlers TeethH Kids & Teens Dentistry, taking dental x-rays or radiographs is a crucial part of diagnosing dental issues and concerns. These radiographs provide detailed images of the teeth, bones, and soft tissues, enabling our dentists to identify problems such as cavities or hidden issues like bone loss that aren’t visible during a routine examination. Early detection through dental x-rays can help prevent more serious conditions, reducing the need for painful or costly treatments later on..

Rest assured, dental x-rays use very minimal amounts of radiation, and exposure is well within safe limits. For instance, a full mouth series of x-rays exposes you to about the same amount of radiation you would encounter from everyday environmental sources.

Barrier

Cavity Prevention

Versatile Applications

Cost-Effective Solution

Fluoride Treatment

At Toddlers TeethH Kids & Teens Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of fluoride in preventing cavities and strengthening tooth enamel. Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water and many foods, and it plays a key role in remineralizing teeth to prevent decay and damage. Research shows that drinking fluoridated water has significantly reduced dental caries, with a decrease of up to two-thirds.

Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and drinking community fluoridated water are effective strategies for reducing tooth decay. In areas where the water supply isn’t fluoridated, we may recommend fluoride tablets for children to ensure they receive the protective benefits of fluoride.

Fillings

When a cavity forms, the standard procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and restoring it with a filling. Fillings are used to repair teeth affected by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. They come in various materials, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Tooth-colored fillings:

Composite fillings offer the advantage of matching the natural color of your teeth, making them virtually invisible and an excellent choice for visible areas. Additionally, newer glass-ionomer fillings have the added benefit of releasing fluoride, which helps strengthen teeth and prevent further decay.

What can this procedure repair?

Tooth decay

Chipped/cracked/ or broken teeth

Wide spaces between teeth

Discoloration caused by Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)

Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)

How is the procedure done?

Composite fillings are typically applied in a single visit. The dentist will begin by numbing the tooth and removing any decay. The tooth is then thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the new filling. If the decay is near the nerve, special medication may be applied for extra protection. Once prepared, the dentist will carefully place, shape, and polish the composite filling, restoring the tooth to its original form and function.

Maintenance of Fillings

Fillings are not immune to decay or damage, so it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. These practices will help preserve the appearance and functionality of your fillings.

Extractions / Space Maintainers

At Toddlers TeethH Kids & Teens Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of fluoride in preventing cavities and strengthening tooth enamel. Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water and many foods, and it plays a key role in remineralizing teeth to prevent decay and damage. Research shows that drinking fluoridated water has significantly reduced dental caries, with a decrease of up to two-thirds.

Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and drinking community fluoridated water are effective strategies for reducing tooth decay. In areas where the water supply isn’t fluoridated, we may recommend fluoride tablets for children to ensure they receive the protective benefits of fluoride.

Mouth Guards

At Toddlers TeethH Kids & Teens Dentistry, we recognize the importance of mouth guards as essential safety equipment for children. As kids increasingly participate in physical sports and activities, protecting their teeth from potential injuries becomes crucial. We recommend mouth guards for any child involved in activities that pose a risk of tooth damage, such as skateboarding, biking, baseball, and more.

Nitrous Oxide / Oxygen Sedation

At Toddlers TeethH Kids & Teens Dentistry, most children feel calm, comfortable, and confident during their visits. However, if a child becomes anxious before or during treatment, we use nitrous oxide/oxygen, a safe and effective sedative agent. This helps alleviate fear and improve communication between the child and our team. It is also particularly useful for children whose gag reflex might interfere with dental procedures.

General Anesthesia/Hospital Dentistry

General anesthesia in hospital dentistry allows patients to remain unconscious and pain-free during complex procedures. It’s ideal for those with severe dental anxiety or extensive treatment needs. Administered by anesthesiologists, it ensures safety and comfort by monitoring vital signs and adjusting anesthesia levels throughout the procedure.

Minimally Invasive Dentistry: Silver Diamine Fluoride

If your child has developed dental caries, there are alternative treatments to traditional fillings and crowns. One option is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), a liquid treatment applied with a small brush during a quick and painless appointment. This method requires no needles or dental drills. The silver in SDF acts as an antimicrobial agent to halt decay, while the fluoride helps strengthen the teeth. SDF is particularly suitable for young children, children with special needs, and those who may have difficulty cooperating during their dental visits. At Branchburg Pediatric Dentistry, we use SDF as a gentle and effective solution to manage dental caries..

Special Needs Dentistry

Special needs dentistry is dedicated to offering personalized dental care for individuals with physical, developmental, or intellectual challenges. Dentists in this specialty use customized techniques and accommodations to ensure comfort and effective treatment. They often work closely with caregivers to develop tailored care plans that address each patient’s specific needs...

General anesthesia

General anesthesia is a medically induced state of unconsciousness used during surgical procedures to ensure that patients remain pain-free and completely unaware of the operation taking place. It involves the administration of a combination of intravenous drugs and inhaled anesthetics, allowing for the safe and effective management of pain and anxiety. Anesthesia providers carefully monitor vital signs throughout the procedure, adjusting the levels of anesthesia as needed to ensure patient safety and comfort.

The process begins with a thorough pre-anesthetic evaluation, where the anesthesiologist assesses the patient’s medical history, current medications, and any potential allergies. This helps to tailor the anesthetic plan to the individual’s needs, minimizing risks and optimizing safety.