23. What if my child needs a filling, crown or root canal?

If your child has a cavity, we take the time to explain the procedure in age-appropriate language for both you and your child. Our goal is to make each filling as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

During the visit:

-The dentist gently removes decay and fills the tooth using a safe, child-friendly material.
-Depending on your child’s needs, we may use local anesthesia or other calming techniques to minimize discomfort.

After a filling, mild sensitivity is normal for a short time. We provide clear instructions for care to keep the tooth healthy. Most children return to normal activities immediately, and regular dental visits help prevent future cavities.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your child’s natural teeth. Made from a special resin, they:

-Bond tightly to the tooth and strengthen it
-Sometimes release fluoride to help prevent new cavities
-Require less removal of healthy tooth structure than metal fillings
-Don’t conduct heat or cold, and won’t darken over time

To help kids stay calm, we offer movies, music, or headphones during the procedure.

Crowns

Crowns are protective “caps” used for teeth that are too damaged or at risk of breaking. They restore strength, function, and appearance.

-Often recommended for large cavities or chipped teeth
-For children, stainless steel crowns are common on baby teeth
-Crowns are only used when necessary to protect the tooth’s health and function

Root Canals & Pulpotomies
Root Canal: Needed if a deep cavity causes pain or inflammation
-Pulpotomy (Baby Root Canal): A less invasive procedure where the diseased portion of a baby tooth’s nerve is removed, and medicine is applied to preserve the tooth

Saving baby teeth is important to maintain space for adult teeth. Premature loss can cause crowding and may lead to braces later.

Extractions

While our goal is to save teeth whenever possible, sometimes removal is the best option. Reasons may include:

-Large decay that cannot be restored
-Baby teeth that need help exfoliating naturally
-Orthodontic concerns
-Infection of the tooth’s nerve tissue

Dr. Tyler, Dr. Sean, or Dr. Nate will explain why an extraction is recommended and how the space will be managed afterward to keep your child’s smile healthy.