Gentle cleaning

The first visit to the dentist may include a variety of items depending on the health of their smile. Once your child is in the chair, Dr. Lee and her team will communicate with you the needs for the visit. This may include x-rays, an oral exam and if there are any cavities she will discuss a plan with you. If your child’s teeth have plaque or build up on them:

The visit may include:

·       the dentist or hygienist may also clean your child’s teeth; remove any plaque or stains and follow with a polish

·       fluoride treatment if needed

Once this is done, Dr. Lee or her team will follow up with you and determine what is needed next. If your child’s teeth are pretty healthy this may include scheduling the next routine cleaning. For more information on your child’s first visit, contact Dr. Anna Lee and her team.

Types of Fillings Used in Children

Fillings can help protect your children’s teeth from developing additional in decay in an area where they already have cavities. This is because the bacteria from a decayed tooth can spread to other teeth. Depending on how big the cavity is will depend on how big the filling is.  There are different types of material that may be used to help fill the gap in the tooth where there use to be decay.

The two most common types of filling material are amalgam and composite (white).

Amalgam fillings have been used as a filling material for more than 100 years.  It is commonly used to restore back teeth (molars).

Advantages:

·      Durable and long lasting

·      Wears well and holds up well to the forces of biting

·      Inexpensive

·      Single visit

For more information on cavities, decay and fillings contact Dr. Lee & her team today.

Common Dental Questions

Asked by Parents

Parents have questions about their child's dental care. Now you can get some of the most commonly asked questions answered by Anna Lee, DDS.

1. Why restore/spend money to fix the baby teeth with cavities when the permanent teeth are coming in soon?

Answer: Baby tooth decay will affect the health of the permanent tooth. Bacteria of untreated teeth may cause a higher risk of permanent teeth to develop cavities. 

2. What happens when the baby tooth is lost too early?

Answer: Baby teeth are like a space retainer for permanent teeth. When a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift into the empty space and make it difficult for other permanent teeth to find room when they come in. This can make teeth crooked or crowded.

Parents play a critical role in the dental success for their children. Early detection of decay can help solve problems in your child's mouth before they become worse. 

Remember early diagnosis and regular dental check-ups will prevent oral health complications. Don't wait, call Anna Lee DDS, office today for a dental check-up.

Anna Lee, D.D.S