Child Dentistry

When tooth decay has already developed in a deciduous (baby) tooth, we perform the following steps for filling the tooth:

• We explain the essence of the procedure to the child, providing only essential information.
• We show them the instruments.
• We perform the treatment as quickly and painlessly as possible.
• Filling deciduous teeth can be done with or without anesthesia, which is decided based on the child's needs and with parental consent.
• It's important for parents to assist during the procedure. They should talk to the child, stand by their side, praise them, and if necessary, be firm.

Deciduous Tooth Fillings

Deciduous teeth have a different structure compared to permanent teeth. They have larger pulp chambers and thinner enamel, which makes decay spread faster than in permanent teeth. Therefore, good oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and regular dental check-ups are crucial during childhood. If decay occurs, it should be treated promptly because deciduous teeth remain in the mouth for a long time and their decay can affect the development of permanent teeth. Symptoms are similar to those of permanent teeth: sensitivity to hot and cold, sweet foods, or beverages, and pain.

Depending on the size of the lesion, filling of deciduous teeth can be done with or without anesthesia. During the procedure, the decayed area is cleaned by drilling, and then the filling material is placed in the tooth. Special care is taken not to use materials that could harm the dental pulp, so glass ionomer cement is commonly used for fillings, which is white in color. This type of filling continuously releases fluoride towards the tooth, protecting it until the eruption of permanent teeth is complete.

Deciduous Tooth Root Canal Treatment

Decay in deciduous teeth can sometimes progress to the extent that it causes inflammation or necrosis of the dental pulp. This can lead to inflammation and swelling in the surrounding area. During treatment, the tooth is opened, cleaned, and left open until symptoms subside. Once the swelling resolves, a special filling material suitable for deciduous teeth is placed in the tooth temporarily. If there are no symptoms after one to two weeks, the final filling can be performed.

Pit and Fissure Sealants

Pits and fissures are the natural grooves found on the chewing surfaces of molars. When these grooves are too deep, they are difficult to clean properly, which can lead to unnoticed decay. This can be prevented by sealing the pits and fissures. Sealant material is used to fill these natural grooves, preventing bacteria from settling in them. The procedure is painless and lasts for a short time. Sealants are usually white in color and contain fluoride, further aiding in protection against future decay.

How it's done:

• The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned, dried, and prepared to ensure better adhesion of the material, then the sealant is applied to the grooves.
• The sealant material is white in color, so there's no need to worry about its visibility. It contains fluoride to enhance tooth protection against decay.
• Extended sealants: This is more relevant in adults when discoloration appears in the fissures, suggesting possible tooth decay. When is it done?

The ideal time is when the molar teeth erupt (6-8 years old). It's also recommended if the teeth have erupted less than 3 years ago.

Who is it recommended for?

• Those whose permanent teeth have deep grooves on the chewing surfaces, making them harder to clean.
• Children who have experienced intensive decay in their deciduous teeth.
• When suspicious signs of decay are visible on permanent teeth.
• Those suffering from xerostomia (reduced saliva production).