Why we repair baby teeth instead of waiting for them to fall out
Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth and are needed for chewing and speech — some back baby teeth stay in until age 10 to 12. An untreated cavity keeps growing, can cause pain and infection, and can damage the adult tooth developing underneath. Fixing it early is almost always simpler and less expensive than fixing it late.
White (composite) fillings
For small and medium cavities we use tooth-colored composite fillings that match your child's natural teeth. Composite bonds directly to the tooth, so we remove less healthy structure than with older filling materials.
Stainless steel crowns
When a cavity is too large for a filling to hold, a stainless steel crown covers the entire tooth and protects it until it falls out naturally. They are the most durable option for back baby teeth and a smart choice for kids who are prone to cavities.
White crowns for front teeth
Front teeth damaged by decay or a fall can be restored with white crowns made of resin composite or zirconia. They look like natural teeth, which matters to kids in school photos.
Pulpotomy (nerve treatment)
When decay reaches the nerve of a baby tooth, we remove the infected part of the nerve, place a medicated dressing and cap the tooth with a crown. This relieves the pain and keeps the tooth in place until the adult tooth is ready.
Gentle extractions
Sometimes a tooth can't be saved because of severe decay, infection or crowding, or it needs to come out before orthodontic treatment. We numb the area thoroughly, explain each step in kid-friendly language, and place a space maintainer when one is needed to protect the gap.
What to expect at your visit
- 01Diagnosis with digital x-raysWe show you exactly what we see and explain every option, with costs, before any treatment.
- 02Comfort firstNumbing gel and local anesthetic, plus laughing gas or sedation if your child is anxious.
- 03The repairA filling, crown or nerve treatment, usually completed in one visit.
- 04AftercareClear instructions on eating, numbness and what to watch for at home.
Why parents choose our restorative pediatric dentist in Stonecrest
- Insurance checked before you arriveWe accept all major PPO plans and verify your benefits in advance, so you know your cost up front. No hidden fees.
- 7 AM appointmentsEarly visits Monday–Friday, plus Saturdays by appointment — easier to fit around school and work.
- Sedation options onsiteLaughing gas, oral sedation and general anesthesia (onsite or hospital) for anxious or young children.
- Everything under one roofCheckups, fillings, crowns, nerve treatment, early orthodontics and emergencies at one Stonecrest office.
- Low-radiation digital x-raysUp to 90% less radiation than film, taken only when they're needed.
- Special needs experienceTraining beyond dental school in caring for children with special healthcare needs.
Restorative Dentistry in Stonecrest: questions parents ask
Does my child need a filling or a crown?
It depends on the size of the cavity. Small cavities can be filled. When decay is too large for a filling to seal reliably, a crown is the stronger, longer-lasting choice — especially for children who get cavities often.
How long do fillings last in baby teeth?
Composite fillings in baby teeth may not last as long as fillings in adult teeth, especially for large cavities. That's why we recommend a stainless steel crown when a cavity is large.
Will the filling or crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed first, so most children feel pressure but not pain. Laughing gas and other sedation options are available for anxious kids.
Are bridges, dentures or implants used for children?
Generally no. These are not usually recommended for children because their jaws are still growing and baby teeth are temporary. Space maintainers are used instead when a tooth is lost early.
Does insurance cover fillings and crowns for kids?
Most PPO plans cover fillings and crowns as basic or major services, with a share paid by you. We verify your plan and explain your out-of-pocket cost before treatment.
Reviewed by Dr. Debbie Granger· Last updated
