Cavity Treatment at Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Ensuring Bright and Healthy Smiles
At Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to maintaining your child’s oral health and providing effective treatments for cavities. Our team of board-certified pediatric dentists, including Dr. Joanna Ayala, DMD, is committed to delivering gentle and compassionate care in a friendly environment. With our comprehensive cavity treatment services, we ensure that your child’s smile remains bright and healthy.What Is a Cavity?
A cavity is a hole that forms in a tooth due to tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the tooth’s enamel. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and preserve your child’s dental health.Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
Cavity treatment is essential for children who:- Have visible signs of tooth decay, such as holes or dark spots on their teeth
- Experience tooth pain or sensitivity, especially when eating sweet, hot, or cold foods
- Have not had a dental check-up in over six months
- Show signs of poor oral hygiene or high sugar consumption
How It Works
Initial Examination
The cavity treatment process begins with a comprehensive examination at Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Our dentists will assess the extent of the decay using visual inspection, dental instruments, and X-rays to identify the affected areas.Administration of Anesthesia
To ensure your child’s comfort during the procedure, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. For children with dental anxiety, laughing gas nitrous oxide or oral sedation may also be used.Cavity Removal
The procedure involves several key steps:- Isolation of the Tooth:
- A dental dam is placed around the affected tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva. This isolation ensures a clean working environment and reduces the risk of infection.
- Removal of Decayed Tissue:
- The dentist uses a dental drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step exposes the healthy tooth structure that will be treated.
- Cleaning the Cavity:
- After removing the decayed tissue, the cavity is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any remaining bacteria and debris. This step is crucial to prevent further decay.
- Filling the Cavity:
- The cleaned cavity is filled with a biocompatible material, such as composite resin or amalgam. Composite resin is often preferred for its natural appearance, as it can be color-matched to the tooth.
- Shaping and Polishing:
- Once the filling material is in place, the dentist shapes and polishes it to ensure a smooth, comfortable, and functional surface. This step restores the tooth’s natural shape and appearance.
Benefits of Cavity Treatment
- Pain Relief: Eliminates pain caused by tooth decay and prevents further discomfort.
- Prevents Infection: Stops the decay from spreading to other parts of the tooth or to adjacent teeth.
- Restores Function: Allows the child to chew and speak properly without discomfort.
- Enhances Appearance: Restores the natural look of the tooth, especially with tooth-colored fillings.
Recovery and Care
Recovery from cavity treatment is usually quick. Your child may experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods for a few days. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow the post-operative care instructions provided by our team:- Avoid sticky or hard foods that can damage the treated tooth.
- Maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep the mouth clean.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of your child’s teeth and catch any new cavities early.
Why Choose Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics?
- Expert Pediatric Care: Our board-certified pediatric dentists,and Dr. Joanna Ayala, DMD, have extensive experience in providing gentle and effective dental care for children. Learn more about our team of specialists.
- Comprehensive and Compassionate Treatment: From diagnosis to treatment, we offer comprehensive care and support throughout your child’s dental journey. Our friendly and welcoming environment ensures a positive experience for every visit. We also provide same day emergency appointments if urgent dental issues arise.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure precise and effective treatments. Our modern facilities are designed to make children feel comfortable and safe. Discover how our modern technology enhances our dental services.
- Convenient Location and Flexible Hours: Located at 2302 SE Military Dr #101, San Antonio, TX 78223, we offer flexible office hours, including weekends, making it easy for you to access the care your child needs.