Pediatric Dentistry | Chili Family Dental

Pediatric Dentistry

Services Offered

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is commonly used in dentistry to provide pain relief and relaxation during dental procedures. It works by reducing anxiety and providing a calming effect, while also decreasing the sensation of pain. Nitrous oxide is administered through a mask placed over the nose, and the patient is able to breathe in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. The effects of nitrous oxide are rapidly reversible, making it a safe and effective option for most patients. In addition, nitrous oxide does not cause any significant changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or respiratory function, and it does not affect the patient's ability to drive or operate heavy machinery after the procedure. Nitrous oxide is commonly used in combination with local anesthetics to provide complete pain relief during dental procedures. It also helps children or adults with strong gag reflexes and sometimes eliminates the need for a patient to get numbed for certain procedures.

Restorations

There are a a number of reasons baby teeth may require treatment and we provide restorations with a variety of materials, including tooth-colored fillings, stainless steel crowns and white crowns. This allows us to tailor your child’s treatment to their needs.

SDF (silver diamine fluoride)

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a topical dental treatment that is used to prevent cavities and tooth decay. It works by strengthening the enamel and dentin, the two main layers of the tooth, and inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause decay. SDF is applied directly to the surface of the tooth using a brush or dropper, and the treatment is quick and painless. The active ingredient in SDF, silver, has antimicrobial properties, while the fluoride helps to strengthen the tooth and reduce sensitivity. SDF has been used in dentistry for over 80 years and has been proven to be a safe and effective way to prevent cavities and tooth decay, particularly in children and patients who have difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene. In some cases, SDF may also be used as a temporary treatment for cavities, helping to slow or stop the progression of decay until a permanent restoration can be placed.

General Anesthesia

We offer in-office general anesthesia in collaboration with a dental anesthesiologist. Whether it is due to age, extreme anxiety, or other special needs some patients are unable to tolerate dental treatment without sedation. For these cases we can provide comprehensive care in a single appointment. Dental general anesthesia is a type of sedation that is used to help patients relax and become unconscious during dental procedures. This form of sedation is typically administered through an intravenous (IV) line, and it works by delivering a controlled amount of anesthetic medication directly into the bloodstream. The anesthetic medication induces a state of unconsciousness, allowing the patient to be unaware of any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Dental general anesthesia is often used for complex dental procedures, such as extractions, root canals, and oral surgery, where the patient may be too anxious or unable to cooperate with the procedure. This type of sedation is typically administered and monitored by a licensed anesthesiologist, who ensures the patient's safety and comfort throughout the procedure. Dental general anesthesia may also be used for children or special needs patients who have difficulty undergoing dental procedures with other forms of sedation.