Cavity Treatment for Children in Princeton: Protecting Your Child’s Smile

Cavity Treatment for Children Princeton

As a parent, one of your main priorities is ensuring that your child’s health and well-being are taken care of, including their dental health. Cavities are one of the most common dental issues among children, but with the right care, you can prevent and treat them effectively. Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry specializes in cavity treatment for children in Princeton and surrounding areas. Our team provides high-quality care in a compassionate, child-friendly environment, led by experienced pediatric dentists like Dr. Christina Ciano, Dr. Geena Russo, Dr. Erin Norris, and Dr. Devina Shah.

What Causes Cavities in Children?

Cavities, or dental caries, are caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your child’s teeth, particularly after eating sugary or starchy foods. When you don’t remove plaque properly through brushing and flossing, the bacteria produce acids that can break down the tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Children, especially young ones, are more prone to cavities due to a variety of factors, such as:

  • Diet: Children often consume sugary snacks and drinks, which contribute to the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
  • Poor Oral Hygiene Habits: Many young children may not effectively brush or floss their teeth, increasing their risk of cavities.
  • Infrequent Dental Visits: Regular dental checkups are essential for catching cavities early and preventing further damage to your child’s teeth.
  • Tooth Enamel: Children’s teeth are more susceptible to enamel erosion because their enamel is thinner than that of adults.

How Do We Treat Cavities in Children?

At Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry in Princeton, we understand that treating cavities in children requires a gentle, patient-focused approach. We aim to make the experience as stress-free as possible while providing effective treatments to restore your child’s oral health. Depending on the severity of the cavity, we offer several treatment options.

Fluoride Treatments

We may recommend fluoride treatments for very early-stage cavities or areas of tooth decay that are not yet causing an entire cavity. Fluoride helps to remineralize the enamel and can prevent further decay. During a simple in-office procedure, fluoride varnish or gel is applied to the affected tooth, allowing it to strengthen and repair the enamel.

Dental Fillings

If a cavity has already formed, our team will likely recommend a dental filling to restore the tooth and prevent further decay. We offer various filling materials, including tooth-colored composite fillings, which blend seamlessly with your child’s natural teeth. The procedure is relatively quick and involves:

  • Removing the decayed part of the tooth.
  • Cleaning the area.
  • Fill the cavity with the chosen material.

How the procedure works:

  • Preparation: The area around the cavity is numbed to ensure your child’s comfort.
  • Removal of Decay: Next, we remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill or laser.
  • Filling the Cavity: We fill the empty cavity with the filling material, which is hardened and shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth.
  • Finishing Touches: The tooth is polished to ensure smoothness and comfort.

Stainless Steel Crowns

Your child may need a stainless steel crown for larger cavities, particularly those in back teeth (molars). Crowns cover and protect a tooth that is significantly weak due to decay. They help restore the tooth’s strength, functionality, and shape. Stainless steel crowns are durable and designed to withstand the pressures of chewing.

Pulp Therapy

If a cavity has reached the tooth’s inner tissue (pulp), you may need a more extensive treatment called pulp therapy. Pulp therapy, also known as a baby root canal, is performed when the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. The treatment involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further damage or infection.

We usually perform this treatment when the cavity has become deep enough to affect the pulp, and we cannot save the tooth. Dr. Christina Ciano, Dr. Geena Russo, Dr. Erin Norris, or Dr. Devina Shah will ensure your child is comfortable throughout the procedure by offering options like anxiety-reducing medications to help ease any dental anxiety.

Preventive Care and Education

Prevention is key regarding cavities, and we believe in educating children and parents about the best practices for keeping teeth healthy. Our pediatric dentists take the time to explain the importance of proper brushing and flossing techniques, the impact of diet on oral health, and the need for regular dental checkups. We may also recommend dental sealants to protect the back teeth from decay.

Why Choose Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry?

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry stands out as a trusted provider of cavity treatment for children in Princeton, thanks to our compassionate team, advanced treatment options, and commitment to creating a positive dental experience for kids. Here are a few reasons why families in the area choose us:

Get Cavity Treatment for Children in Princeton

Don’t wait until a small cavity turns into a larger dental problem. At Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry, we provide cavity treatment for children in Princeton, helping kids achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. If you notice any signs of cavities, such as tooth pain or sensitivity, or if it’s been a while since your child’s last checkup, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
We care about your child’s dental health and are here to ensure they receive the best care possible in a fun and welcoming environment. Call us now to schedule an appointment with Dr. Christina Ciano, Dr. Geena Russo, Dr. Erin Norris, or Dr. Devina Shah!