Dental Services

Dental Exam

A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by Dr Mejia at your child’s initial dental visit.  Depending on your child’s age, the following will also be included:

• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions, as well as the developing adult teeth.

• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

• Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.

• Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.

• Examination of existing restorations: Check your child’s current fillings, crowns, etc., if they have any.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed if your child is not at a pre-cooperative age.  Your child’s initial visit and future check-up appointments will include a dental exam and the following:

• Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
• Removal of Calculus (Tartar), if present: This is the hard build up that forms when plaque is not brushed off of the teeth

A stainless steel crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface.  A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.  Usually, a stainless steel crown is placed on a baby molar that has a large cavity and may require a pulpotomy, or ‘baby root canal’. 

Although there are several types of crowns, stainless steel is used on children due to its single appointment placement and durability.  They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they need to be brushed regularly so that they last for the life of the baby tooth.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• A tooth has or needs a pulpotomy

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc.  The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth.  Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today.  Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced.  They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for composite fillings:

• Chipped teeth.
• Closing space between two teeth.
• Cracked or broken teeth.
• Decayed teeth.
• Worn teeth.

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.