When your child chips a tooth on the playground or a routine checkup reveals a cavity, the first question most parents ask is: what happens now?
Restorative dentistry addresses these problems by repairing teeth that have been damaged by decay, injury, or a developmental issue and restoring normal function.
Below, we explain what restorative dentistry for children involves and when your child may need it.
What is Pediatric Restorative Dentistry?
Pediatric restorative dentistry includes treatments that repair a tooth after it has been damaged, rather than treatments focused on preventing problems before they begin.
So, if your child has a cavity, a tooth injured in a fall, or an enamel defect, restorative care can help repair the damage.
Whenever possible, the goal is to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible.
Your child’s natural tooth structure and function are generally better preserved than replacing it with a restoration, which can range from a small filling to a crown (cap), depending on the size of the area that needs to be addressed.
Treatment is focused on removing or replacing only what is necessary while leaving the healthy parts of the tooth intact.
Read more: Does Every Cavity in a Child Need a Filling?
Why Might a Child Need Restorative Dental Treatment?
Children may need restorative dental treatment for several common reasons, most often involving tooth decay, injuries, or changes in how their teeth develop.
Cavities are the most common reasons for restorative treatment. Sugar and starch feed bacteria in plaque, which produce acids that gradually wear away tooth enamel. Since baby teeth have thinner enamel than adult teeth, cavities can progress more quickly in young children.
Read more: The 5 Most Common Causes of Cavities in Children
Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth also account for many restorative visits. Falls, sports injuries, and biting into something hard can damage a tooth, particularly during the toddler years and early adolescence.
Read more: 5 Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies in Children
Dental injuries and accidents, such as a tooth being knocked loose or pushed out of position, may need prompt attention. Early treatment can help protect the tooth and address any damage to the surrounding tissues.
Enamel defects or developmental problems can affect some children from birth. When enamel does not form properly, teeth may be more prone to decay and sensitivity, even with regular brushing and good oral care.
Read more: Enamel Hypoplasia in Kids: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments
Damage related to other oral conditions can also lead to restorative treatment. Teeth may become worn or weakened by grinding, chronic dry mouth, or conditions that affect saliva production. These changes can develop gradually, even when there has been no obvious injury.
Pediatric Restorative Dentistry Treatment Types for Children
Pediatric restorative dentistry can include several types of treatment, depending on the condition of your child’s teeth. Below is an overview of some of the more common restorative treatments a child may receive.
Dental Fillings
A dental filling repairs a tooth that has been damaged by a cavity. When the decay has not reached the tooth’s nerve, we remove the decayed portion and fill the space, usually with a tooth-colored composite material that blends with the rest of the tooth.
Dental Crowns
When decay or damage is too extensive for a filling to hold up, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown covers the entire tooth and helps keep it functioning until the baby tooth is ready to fall out naturally.
Tooth Extractions
A tooth extraction is a procedure used to remove a tooth entirely. It may be needed as a last resort when there is very little healthy tooth structure left to preserve, usually because of severe decay or infection.
Pulp Therapy
Sometimes called a baby root canal, pulp therapy removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. This allows us to preserve the tooth instead of removing it. It is a common treatment for children and is generally less involved than a root canal for an adult tooth.
Oral Growth and Development Guidance
Restorative dental visits also give us an opportunity to monitor how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing. We can look for concerns such as crowding or an uneven bite and determine if further evaluation or treatment may be needed.
Read more: Is Your Child’s Bite Off? Here’s What You Should Know About Overbites and Underbites
Dental Emergencies
Some dental problems need attention sooner than a scheduled appointment. A knocked-out tooth, sudden tooth pain, or an injury from a fall or sports accident may require prompt dental care.
Read more: Is Your Home a Tooth Trap? 6 Household Hazards That Can Cause Dental Emergencies in Children
Treat Damage Early to Protect Your Child’s Comfort and Smile
Treating a damaged tooth as soon as possible, rather than waiting, can help keep your child comfortable and prevent the damage from becoming more serious.
Our pediatric dental team in Lafayette has served the Greater Acadiana area for more than 15 years. If you’re searching for a trusted local pediatric dentist for your child, contact us to request an appointment.