Restoring baby teeth is essential to ensure they remain in the jaw until the permanent replacement tooth emerges. Healthy baby teeth also positively impact a child’s overall health.
When Should a Child Come for Baby Tooth Restoration?
Baby tooth decay develops very quickly. This happens due to sugar consumption and inadequate dental hygiene in children.
Baby teeth should be restored as soon as decay appears. Regular visits to the dentist allow for early detection of problems, usually around the age of two or three.
It is important to treat decay as soon as it is noticed, as untreated decay can cause pain, infections, and issues with the development of permanent teeth. Even more important is preventing cavities from forming – through fissure sealing and teaching children proper oral hygiene.
Is It Possible to Restore Every Baby Tooth?
If the tooth is close to falling out, the dentist may decide not to restore it. However, restoration is necessary regardless of how close the tooth is to falling out if there is a risk of infection or other complications.
What Does Baby Tooth Restoration Involve?
Baby tooth restoration can be done with or without anesthesia, in agreement with the child and parents. For minor decay, children can usually tolerate the restoration without anesthesia. First, the tooth is cleaned of decay, and then a composite filling is placed.
If the decay has progressed to the tooth’s nerve, root canal treatment is performed first, followed by placing a filling.
