RESTORATIVE CARE
No child wants to have a “sick tooth,” but when they do, providing comfort during the visit is our priority. By using a “show and tell” concept, our clinical team explains procedures before we perform them, which not only eases a child’s mind but also promotes understanding and acceptance of examination and treatment. During lengthy and involved procedures, keeping pediatric patients calm and cooperative may include additional relaxation techniques.
GROWING SMILES RESTORATIVE SERVICES
At Growing Smiles, we offer a comprehensive range of restorative services designed to maintain the oral health of our young patients and address any dental issues they may face. To help patients relax during such occasions, we offer nitrous oxide, a safe method to minimize anxiety. Commonly known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide helps to relax patients and alleviate apprehension so that the dental team can provide the required dental treatment. To learn more about the use of nitrous oxide as comfort care, please call our office at 410-569-6700. Our team is committed to providing gentle, high-quality care tailored to the unique needs of each child.
DENTAL FILLINGS
When a tooth has been damaged by decay, we remove the decayed portion and replace it with a filling. Fillings can be made from various materials, such as composite resin, which is tooth-colored and blends seamlessly with your child’s natural teeth. Our team ensures that the process is comfortable and stress-free for our young patients.
CROWNS
When tooth decay in children is too extensive for a filling, a dental crown is used. This cap, made from zirconium or metal, covers the tooth above the gum line. Post-placement, children may have minor gum irritation for a few days, but regular brushing promotes quick healing.
TOOTH EXTRACTIONS
Tooth extraction is sometimes necessary when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to save, or to make room for permanent teeth in a crowded mouth. This procedure involves removing the tooth from its socket in the bone. While the thought of extraction can be daunting for children and parents alike, our team is experienced in making the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We use local anesthesia to numb the area and can offer sedation options for anxious patients.
SPACE MAINTAINERS
Space maintainers are used when a child loses a baby tooth prematurely. The early loss of a tooth can cause the neighboring teeth to drift into the empty space, potentially leading to alignment issues for the incoming permanent tooth. A space maintainer is designed to hold this space open, preventing movement until the permanent tooth erupts. Our team ensures the process is comfortable for the child and provides detailed care instructions to parents.
GROWING SMILES LOCATIONS
BEL AIR OFFICE
2012 S. Tollgate Rd., Suite 212
Bel Air, MD 21015
Phone: 410-569-6700
Fax: 410-569-6718
White Marsh Office
11570 Crossroads Cir., Suite 116
White Marsh, MD 21220
Phone: 410-697-9000
Fax: 410-697-9040