Below you'll find care instructions and what to expect during healing. Select your child's treatment below, or keep scrolling to review each section.
SDF is an antimicrobial medicine that stops active cavities and prevents new ones from forming. It kills the bacteria causing decay. The dark staining shows the cavity has been arrested - it won't grow or cause problems. This approach avoids drilling and allows the tooth to stay healthy until it falls out naturally.
No, but that is a good thing - it shows the medicine worked. Baby teeth will fall out naturally with the stain.
No. Some kids don't like the taste, but there is no pain.
We'll monitor the tooth at regular visits. Most treated teeth need no further treatment.
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities from forming. The longer it stays on your child's teeth, the more it can absorb and protect the enamel. This is why we recommend waiting to brush.
More time on teeth equals more protection. The fluoride needs time to absorb.
Yes. The amount used is safe and effective - it's been proven to reduce cavities by strengthening enamel.
Sealants protect the grooves in teeth where cavities commonly form. They create a smooth barrier that keeps bacteria and food particles out. With proper care, sealants can last for several years, preventing cavities during the most vulnerable years.
Several years with proper care. We'll check them at regular visits.
Rarely, but we'll replace them if needed at no charge during regular checkups.
Sealants protect the chewing surfaces. Keep brushing and flossing to protect between teeth.
Sometimes removing a baby tooth is the best option - whether due to extensive decay, infection, or making room for permanent teeth. Baby teeth are meant to fall out, and removing one that's causing problems prevents pain and allows healthy development. The permanent tooth developing underneath is not affected.
Some children feel minimal discomfort; others have mild soreness for 2-3 days. Over-the-counter pain reliever (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) works well. Give as directed on the package for your child's age/weight. Most kids feel significantly better by day 4.
No. The permanent tooth is developing separately underneath and will come in on schedule.
Usually no for baby teeth. We'll let you know if a space maintainer is needed.
Most kids can return to regular foods within 3-5 days.
Crowns protect weakened or damaged teeth, allowing them to function normally until they fall out naturally. We place crowns without drilling or numbing in many cases - they simply fit over the tooth like a protective cap. This preserves the tooth structure and prevents further decay or breakage.
Many children experience no discomfort at all. Some have mild sensitivity for 1-2 days. Over-the-counter pain reliever (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) works well if needed. Give as directed for your child's age/weight.
Until the baby tooth naturally falls out. Crowns are very durable.
Kids typically adjust within 24 hours. If it's still bothersome after a few days, give us a call.
Rare, but if it does, give us a call and we'll re-cement it.
Local anesthesia blocks pain signals so your child is comfortable during treatment. It's very safe and wears off on its own within a couple of hours. The numb feeling means it's working - your child won't feel any discomfort during the procedure.
This is the main concern. Watch them until feeling returns. If they bite and cause swelling, apply ice.
Wait until numbness is completely gone - test by gently touching the area.
We use techniques to minimize discomfort, and most kids do great.
If you have any concerns about your child's recovery or need additional guidance, our team is here to help.