The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child establish his or her dental home by age one. We offer a safe and kid-friendly environment to help your child build positive associations with the dentist.
Emma’s favorite part was that the staff happily explained each thing they were doing before it happened, making it less scary. The hygienist also gave her silly names for things which made them even less intimidating with children’s dentist Madison.
Preventive Care
Dental problems often can be prevented with regular visits to the dentist. A pediatric specialist is trained to recognize and treat the unique oral health needs of children.
Visiting the dentist on a routine basis helps children develop good dental hygiene habits, which can lead to healthy teeth and a beautiful smile throughout life. Children should begin seeing the dentist shortly after the eruption of their first tooth.
The best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease is to follow the 2-2-2 rule: visit the dentist twice a year, and brush and floss twice daily for two minutes each time. We provide a comfortable, kid-friendly environment where kids can learn about good dental care.
Fillings
Dental fillings are the most common and effective treatment for tooth decay (also called cavities) that is caused by acid waste from bacteria and sugar in the mouth.
Before a filling is placed, the tooth and surrounding area will be cleaned and sanitized. Then a special etching compound will be applied to the tooth surface. This opens natural microscopic pores in the enamel which helps the composite resin bond and adhere to the tooth.
Lastly, the tooth-colored composite resin is artfully molded to match the color of the adjacent teeth for the best cosmetic appearance. Alternatively, traditional glass-and-acrylic fillings can also be used.
Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers and improves a damaged tooth’s shape, size and strength. When cemented into place, it fully encases the visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.
A dental crown can help save a tooth that is too decayed to be restored with a filling. It can also protect a cracked or fractured tooth from further damage.
Crowns can preserve baby teeth until permanent teeth erupt, preventing premature loss and complications with permanent tooth development. They can also guard against further decay and structural damage. Crowns are durable and will last 10-15 years with proper oral hygiene.
Veneers
Veneers are a great way to make teeth look even and bright. They are typically made of porcelain or resin composite. They can correct a wide variety of cosmetic problems.
A first appointment with the dentist will determine whether or not veneers are appropriate for your smile. During this appointment, the dentist will answer any questions and give you a general picture of the results you can expect.
During the second appointment, the dentist will prepare your teeth by removing some enamel. You will likely notice some rough spots, but these should smooth out with time and brushing. If you clench or grind your teeth at night, a splint or retainer may be needed to protect your veneers.
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a special branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of jaw and tooth irregularities such as an overbite, underbite, crowded teeth or misaligned jaws. Orthodontic treatment usually involves the use of braces to gradually straighten and align crooked or protruding teeth and to correct the relationship between the upper and lower jaws.
Orthodontic treatment can also correct other health problems such as cleft lips and palate. Orthodontic care is typically best started during childhood, although it is becoming more common for adults to receive orthodontic treatment. The success of the treatment depends on the patient’s commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular visits to their orthodontist.
Dental Hygiene
Our best kid’s dentist Madison al can teach your child the basics of good dental hygiene and help them develop a regular dental routine. They can also encourage your children to eat healthy foods and to brush and floss regularly to prevent tooth decay.
Children’s dentists have advanced training in the recognition and treatment of childhood oral health problems, from infancy through adolescence. They are also knowledgeable in pediatric clinical and hospital dentistry, including the administration of conscious sedation and dental surgery.
Our office strives to create a comfortable and fun environment. We provide iPads with games in our waiting room and ceiling-mounted televisions above the chair with movies for children to watch during their dental treatments.
