Comfortable, Caring Dental Care
Our patients range in age from infant to 18 (or graduation from high school). In an effort to minimize discomfort, both physical and emotional, we offer sedation dentistry services. Ask us about nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and general anesthesia options.
SERVICES
We believe that the less dental treatment anyone receives, the better their experience. Therefore, we always try treat only what is necessary. We always try to do it right the first time and to balance the number of visits with the financial commitment and amount of time the patient spends being treated. Most importantly, we include the parents and patients in the process so they can make an informed decision on what is best for them.
Oral Hygiene
Your child should be scheduled for preventive care every six months with thorough cleanings and exams. The only way our treatment is effective is if healthy habits for snacking and daily oral hygiene are kept up at home.
Sealants
Sealants fill the grooves in molars that can’t be cleaned effectively with a toothbrush. A clear coating seals the grooves and prevents bacteria from forming cavities.
Fillings
Fillings are used to return a tooth to normal function after a cavity has been removed and the tooth has been cleaned. We offer both amalgam (silver) and composite (plastic resin) fillings. Amalgam fillings are longer-lasting but very visible. Composite fillings last three to 10 years and are tooth-colored for use on front and back teeth.
Bonding
Bonding is a very conservative approach to treating chipped, crooked, or discolored teeth. The material used in bonding is tooth-colored and is matched to your child’s natural teeth. The downside is that bonding material can stain over time with some foods. Talk to Dr. Hobbs, or any of us, if you are considering bonding.
Extractions
Removing teeth may be necessary in the course of treatment. Baby teeth usually fall out naturally and don’t present an issue. Dr. Hobbs may need to remove teeth that are significantly decayed, malpositioned, fractured, or impacted. Sedation is available and pain medication administered to make the procedure as easy as possible.
Crowns & Space Maintainers
Crowns are also called “caps” and are used to cover a weak tooth to maintain structure for chewing and aesthetics. Space maintainers, or “spacers,” replace lost baby teeth so the other baby teeth don’t drift and push the adult teeth out of place.
Hospital Dentistry & Anesthesia
Some very young children, children with special needs, or apprehensive children who are unable to be helped in the office may require treatment under general anesthesia. This is performed in an operating room as an outpatient procedure. Should your child need general anesthesia, rest assured that Dr. Hobbs received his training at a hospital-based residency program and still goes to the operating room on a routine basis. Dr. Hobbs is on staff at both the Lutheran and Parkview Medical Systems and would be happy to talk with you if you feel this may be the best option for your child.
STATE OF THE ART OFFICE
To ensure an excellent experience for every patient, our office has been remodeled for maximum comfort. The Kids’ Cabin in our waiting room is full of fun games and activities. Our treatment rooms have TVs mounted on the ceiling so kids can watch while they are in the treatment chair. We use digital x-rays to maximize image quality and decrease exposure to radiation, and high-tech equipment and techniques to find dental problems early.
Be in the Know!
Education is the first step in prevention. Here are some FAQs for you and your child!
What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
When a child’s teeth are exposed to milk, formula, fruit juice, or other sugary liquids for long periods time, cavities can develop. Don’t put your baby to sleep with a bottle. Wipe off baby’s gums after feeding with a damp, clean baby washcloth or gauze pad. When that first baby tooth erupts, begin your good brushing habits every morning after breakfast and every night before bed. If baby’s teeth touch each other, don’t forget to floss.
Is laughing gas safe for my child?
If your child is anxious, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a safe medication to calm the child for the duration of their dental care. It is very safe and well-tolerated by most children.
Are sports drinks okay for my kid’s teeth?
Sports drinks are full of sugar and acids. Hydration with water is a much better option. If your child chooses to drink sports drinks, make sure they drink water afterwards to rinse the mouth.
At what age should I schedule an appointment for my child?
The AAPD recommends that each child have their first dental visit by age 1. At PDA, we too feel that early education is the key to preventing cavities for a lifetime.
Do I need a referral from my family dentist?
No. We treat all patients from birth to 18 years.
Why should I choose a pediatric dentist instead of a general dentist?
Pediatric dentists have 2-3 years of education beyond that of a general dentist specifically on caring for children and adolescents. By limiting their practice to this age group, they are better able to predict, diagnose, and treat any problem that may arise simply due to more experience. Helping kids is our practice, not just a portion of it, and we love it!
What do you do that would be different than my family dentist?
At PDA, our office is designed around and for kids. From our chairs and smaller instruments to our individual televisions, we cater to your child. With our combined 30+ years experience, we know how to comfort most children.
Why are baby teeth important?
Baby teeth are the foundation of our smiles. By age three we have acquired most of the bacteria contained in our mouths, including the bad ones that cause tooth decay! Baby teeth also work as nature’s little space maintainers by helping to guide our adult teeth as they grow into our mouths. A healthy mouth and healthy habits at an early age can put children on a path for success, eating, sleeping, and growing pain-free.