FAQs
Why is restorative dentistry important for children?
Restorative dentistry for children addresses dental problems like cavities, missing teeth, or damaged teeth to ensure proper oral health and function. It helps prevent pain, maintain healthy development, and protect baby teeth, which serve as placeholders for adult teeth.
Do cavities in baby teeth need to be filled?
Yes, cavities in baby teeth should be filled. Leaving them untreated can cause pain, infections, and potential complications that may affect the development of permanent teeth. Filling cavities also prevents them from worsening and ensures your child’s comfort.
What are space maintainers, and why are they used?
Space maintainers are dental devices used to hold the space left by a missing baby tooth. They ensure that other teeth do not shift into the open space, allowing the permanent tooth to grow in correctly and preventing misalignment issues in the future.
What is a crown for children’s teeth?
A crown for children is a protective cap placed over a damaged or decayed baby tooth when the cavity is too large to fill. These crowns are temporary and designed to maintain function until the adult tooth erupts.
What is a dental sealant, and how does it help?
A dental sealant is a tooth-colored, plastic-like coating applied to the grooves and ridges of a tooth. It acts as a barrier against bacteria and plaque, reducing the risk of decay and making it easier to clean teeth effectively.
When is a tooth extraction necessary for children?
A tooth extraction may be necessary if a baby tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or impeding the eruption of an adult tooth. It might also be recommended for orthodontic purposes or if the baby tooth has not fallen out naturally despite the adult tooth erupting.