A dental crown, often referred to as a "cap," is a protective cover placed over a damaged or decayed tooth. In children, cap placement (or crown placement) is common for a few specific reasons, particularly when a tooth is too damaged to support a filling. Here’s an overview of why and how crowns are placed on children's teeth: Reasons for Placing a Cap on a Child’s Tooth Severe Decay: When a cavity is too large and a filling may not be enough, a crown can provide the necessary support and protection for the remaining tooth structure. Damage from Trauma: If a child’s tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken from an injury, a crown can protect it and restore its function. Weak or Developmentally Defective Teeth: Some children may have weaker teeth due to developmental issues or genetic conditions. A crown can add strength and prevent future problems. After a Root Canal: When a child has had a root canal on a primary (baby) tooth, a crown is often used to protect the treated tooth until it naturally falls out. Types of Crowns for Kids’ Teeth Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs): These are the most common for primary teeth because they are durable, cost-effective, and generally quick to place. They are typically used on back (posterior) teeth and are silver in color, which is less of an aesthetic concern in molars. Composite Strip Crowns: These are tooth-colored and blend in with natural teeth, making them ideal for front (anterior) teeth. They are made of a composite resin that is shaped to match the child's natural tooth color. Zirconia Crowns: These crowns are also tooth-colored but are much stronger than composite crowns, so they can withstand more wear and tear. Zirconia crowns are popular for both front and back teeth because of their strength and natural appearance, though they tend to be more costly. The Procedure Preparation: The dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia to prevent discomfort. The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is then removed, and the remaining tooth is shaped to hold the crown securely. Fitting the Crown: Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist will select the correct size and shape of the crown to fit over the tooth. The crown is then cemented onto the tooth, covering it entirely to protect it from future decay or damage. Polishing and Finishing: The dentist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure the child’s bite feels comfortable with the crown in place. The crown is polished for a smooth finish. Aftercare Tips for Dental Crowns Good Oral Hygiene: Encourage brushing twice daily and flossing to prevent cavities in surrounding teeth. Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: These can dislodge or damage the crown, especially for composite and stainless steel types.

Tooth extraction for children, often called "kids' tooth extraction," is a dental procedure where a child's tooth is removed from its socket in the jaw bone. This is generally done for various reasons, such as: 1. Severe Decay or Infection When a cavity becomes too large or has spread to the pulp (inner part of the tooth), extraction may be necessary if a filling or root canal isn't feasible. 2. Orthodontic Reasons Teeth might be extracted to make room for others if a child has overcrowded teeth, especially before orthodontic treatment (like braces). 3. Stubborn Baby Teeth Sometimes baby teeth don't fall out on their own, which can affect the proper eruption of adult teeth. Extracting these can ensure adult teeth grow in properly. 4. Injury or Trauma In cases where a tooth is damaged beyond repair, extraction may be needed to prevent complications.

Teeth cleaning and polishing are routine dental procedures designed to maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental problems. These treatments are typically performed by a dental hygienist during a regular check-up and play a key role in preventing gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues. 1. Teeth Cleaning (Scaling) Teeth cleaning, or scaling, involves the removal of plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and if not removed, it hardens into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing, which is why professional cleaning is necessary. Steps in Teeth Cleaning: Examination: The dentist or hygienist starts by examining your teeth and gums to assess the condition of your oral health. Scaling: Using specialized instruments like a hand scaler or ultrasonic scaler, the dental professional carefully removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially around the gum line and between teeth where it’s hard to reach with a toothbrush. Flossing: After scaling, the dental hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris. Teeth cleaning helps prevent gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) and cavities, improving your overall dental health. 2. Teeth Polishing Teeth polishing is typically done after scaling. It makes the surface of your teeth smooth and helps remove surface stains, giving them a clean, shiny appearance. While polishing doesn't provide therapeutic benefits like scaling, it can enhance the aesthetics of your smile and prevent the accumulation of plaque. Steps in Teeth Polishing: Polishing Paste: A gritty polishing paste is applied to the teeth, usually with a small rubber cup attached to a handpiece. Polishing Process: The dental hygienist moves the rubber cup over your teeth to polish the surfaces. The paste is mildly abrasive, helping to remove surface stains from things like coffee, tea, or tobacco.

An endodontist is a specialized dentist focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of issues related to the dental pulp (the soft tissue inside the teeth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) and the periradicular tissues (the tissues surrounding the root of the tooth). Endodontists are experts in performing root canal treatments, a procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp, cleans the root canal, and seals the tooth to prevent future infection. Here are some key points about endodontists: Specialized Training: Endodontists complete dental school and then undergo an additional two to three years of specialized training in endodontics. Root Canal Specialists: They primarily perform root canal treatments, which help save teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or damage. Pain Management: Endodontists are skilled in managing dental pain, especially those related to tooth infections or trauma. They use advanced techniques and anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Microscopic Dentistry: Many endodontists use specialized equipment, such as dental microscopes, to perform precise work on the tiny, complex spaces inside teeth.