10
Apr
Repairing Kids’ Smiles with Restorative Dental Care After Trauma
As a parent, witnessing your child experience dental trauma can be distressing. At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, located at Mission Viejo, California and serving patients in and around Laguna Hills, California, we understand your concern and are here to guide you through the process of tooth restoration after such an event. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a chipped tooth, or any other form of dental injury, prompt action is key to ensuring the best possible outcome.
In our practice, we offer a range of treatments tailored to address different types of dental trauma, restoring both the function and appearance of your child’s smile. From gentle and effective procedures to advanced techniques, our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care that prioritizes your child’s comfort and well-being. Let us partner with you on this journey to restore your child’s dental health and confidence.
Common Dental Traumas Experienced by Children
Kids are often susceptible to dental traumas due to their active lifestyles. Common injuries include knocked-out teeth, typically resulting from falls or sports accidents. Chipped or fractured teeth are also prevalent, often occurring during rough play or biting down on hard objects. Additionally, dental trauma can manifest as tooth displacement, where teeth are pushed out of their normal position. These injuries not only affect the aesthetics of a child’s smile but also impact their oral health.
The first thing parents should do in the event of a dental injury is to remain calm and reassure the child. Then, immediately contact a pediatric dentist for guidance. Quick action is crucial to address these traumas and prevent further complications, ensuring a bright and healthy smile for your child.
Treatment Options
- Dental Fillings: Used to repair minor chips or fractures, dental fillings are typically made of composite resin material that matches the natural color of the tooth.
- Dental Bonding: Similar to dental fillings, dental bonding involves the application of a tooth-colored resin to the affected tooth and shaping it to restore its appearance and function.
- Dental Crowns: Dental crowns may be recommended for more extensive damage or fractures. These custom-made caps cover the entire visible portion of the tooth, providing strength and protection.
- Root Canal Therapy: In cases where dental trauma results in severe damage to the tooth’s pulp, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove infected or damaged tissue and restore the tooth’s health.
- Tooth Re-implantation: If a tooth is knocked out completely, re-implantation may be attempted if done promptly. The tooth is carefully repositioned and stabilized to encourage reattachment to the surrounding tissues.
Call Us Today!
At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive pediatric dental services tailored to meet the unique needs of children. From routine check-ups and cleanings to specialized treatments for dental emergencies, our experienced team is dedicated to providing gentle and compassionate care. Whether your child needs preventive care, restorative treatments, orthodontic services, or urgent dental attention, we’re here to help. Trust our skilled professionals to prioritize your child’s comfort and oral health. Contact us at (949) 581 5800 to schedule an appointment and ensure your child receives the exceptional dental care they deserve.
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Dr. John De Lorme
Dr. John De Lorme is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). He is a healthcare leader in his community, speaking at parent/child classes throughout South Orange County for the last 30 years. He attended Saint Mary’s College, University of the Pacific – Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital for his residency.
Dr. Samuel Wu
Dr. Samuel Wu, also an ABPD Diplomate, attended the University of California in Berkeley and Los Angeles and spent his residency at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital. He has a passion for medical missions to other countries.
Both Drs. De Lorme and Wu are affiliated with MobiSurg, an Accredited Surgery Center, and are members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Society, California Dental Association, Orange County Dental Society, and American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Chris Carter
Dr. Chris Carter completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and dental school and residency at Oregon Health and Science University. He practiced general dentistry for five years before specializing in orthodontics. His experience at the University of California – Irvine’s Plastic Surgery Department allows him to craft smiles that perfectly complement each patient’s unique facial features.
Dr. Carter is a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, American Association of Orthodontists, Orange County Dental Society, California Dental Association, and American Dental Association.