Pediatric Oral SurgeryNapa, CA

Understanding Pediatric Oral Surgery

Occasionally, children’s teeth undergo severe damage that requires extensive restorative care. These treatments may involve dental fillings, crowns, bonding, veneers, pediatric root canals, and tooth extraction. It is crucial for parents to pick the right dentist for pediatric oral surgery, as any procedure will affect the entirety of the child’s developing teeth and soft tissues. Luckily, Dr. Suttie has over 30 years of experience treating children with the care they deserve.

Dental Fillings and Crowns

According to the CDC, dental cavities, also known as caries, are among the most common health problems in American children today. They start off small and painless, making it easy for them to go unnoticed and untreated. Over time, however, they can lead to severe complications — least among them, excruciating pain.

Though treatment varies on a case-by-case basis, it will typically involve removing any decay with a drill. Dr. Suttie will then seal this hole with a dental filling. If the affected tooth is so decayed that there is little remaining healthy enamel, he will also cap the tooth with a dental crown to preserve it.

Dental Bonding and Veneers

Tooth reshaping procedures, such as dental bonding and veneers, can often enhance both the appearance and function of the mouth. In particular, dental bonding can restore decayed, chipped, or cracked teeth. It can also reduce the appearance of discolored teeth, close spaces between teeth, protect part of the tooth root, and even act as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings.

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made, tooth-colored shells that cover the front of the teeth. They can address tooth discoloration (which can result from root canal treatment, medication-related stains, excessive fluoride, large resin fillings, and other causes) and gapped teeth. They may also restore chipped, broken, misaligned, irregularly shaped, or worn down teeth.

Pediatric Root Canals

There are several different reasons a child may need a root canal. For example, they may suffer facial trauma, resulting in a break that exposes the tooth’s pulp. Alternatively, they may experience unexplainable pain or ultra-sensitivity to temperature changes. In general, if a tooth has become badly damaged or infected, root canal treatment may be necessary.

During the actual procedure, Dr. Suttie will use dental devices to reach into the tooth’s root canals to remove any diseased pulp. He will then clean the tooth root with cleaning fluids, and he may take an X-ray to examine if there is any remaining pulp to remove. Once Dr. Suttie has removed all the pulp, he will clean the root canal with a germ-killing liquid.

After it has dried, the root canal will be filled with a biocompatible material to completely replace the pulp and seal the root canals. Dr. Suttie may also use a steroid paste to reduce any swelling. Finally, he will cap the tooth with a temporary or permanent crown.

Tooth Extraction

Even baby teeth need to be extracted sometimes. This procedure is usually reserved for teeth that are decayed or damaged beyond repair, must be removed for orthodontic treatment, and baby teeth that obstruct the permanent teeth from erupting.

Tooth extractions can be simple or surgical. Usually, teeth that are clearly visible in the mouth can be removed via simple extraction. This process involves loosening the tooth with a dental device called an elevator and removing it with forceps. Surgical extractions are typically for teeth that are embedded in or covered by the jaw bone. Wisdom teeth usually fall in one of these categories.

Call Us Today

When it comes to pediatric oral surgery, we know you are looking for someone who can put you and your child’s fears at ease. We at Dr. David Suttie Dentistry for Children can help. Call us today at 707-887-5072 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are dental fillings necessary?

When cavities are left untreated, the infection can spread to the rest of the body. This is true if the affected tooth is a baby or adult tooth. The only way to stop the process of decay is to remove it. Fillings replace the lost pulp.

How long does dental bonding last?

If properly cared for, dental bonding on permanent teeth will last around five to seven years. However, if the treated tooth is a baby tooth, then it will fall out as usual. Teeth treated with dental bonding will not require any special care aside from a standard oral hygiene routine.

Will it be painful for my child to undergo a root canal procedure?

No. It is a common misconception that root canal treatments are painful. Thanks to modern technologies and anesthesia, the procedure is no more painful than a filling. Plus, Dr. Suttie and our team members are well-versed in making children comfortable in the dentist’s chair.

How can I help my child recover after their tooth extraction?

To control any bleeding after your child’s procedure, help them change the gauze every 20 minutes until it subsides. You can also help your child ice the affected area for about 20 minutes at a time to reduce any swelling. If they are experiencing any pain or discomfort, administer an appropriate amount of over-the-counter painkillers. Call us immediately if your child is experiencing any persistent pain or bleeding.

How can I help my child prevent tooth decay?

It is crucial to bring your child in for regular checkups at least twice a year. Certain problems can only be detected by a pediatric dentist. Educate your child on proper oral hygiene and feed them a balanced diet, avoiding excessive amounts of starchy or sugary foods.