Little Smiles

Dr. Bhagyashree Bhatt

B.D.S, M.D.S, PG.C.O.I
Pediatric and Preventive Dentist

Pediatric dentistry is one of the seven recognized clinical specialties of dentistry. It includes all areas of adult dentistry that may be applied to children. However, it also includes many procedures that are specific to the peculiar needs of primary (baby) teeth and challenges of the developing child. The most significant difference between pediatric and adult dentistry is the need for dentists treating children to understand and practice sound psychological principles to allow children to have positive, relatively pain-free experiences in this important health area. Bad memories of traumatic dental therapy during childhood can influence children negatively and make them reject adequate dental care for life. The overall goal is the delivery of quality, safe dental care in an environment that is as pleasant as possible for children and that promotes a positive attitude toward oral health and future dental care.

Gallery

Specializes in

Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs)

Stainless steel crowns are used to restore back teeth that are too badly decayed to hold white fillings. When tooth decay on back teeth has been left untreated, teeth may have extensive damage to the enamel, dentin and sometimes the nerve (pulp). In such cases, tooth-colored fillings are not a viable option, and stainless steel crowns necessary. These prefabricated sliver-colored crowns are fit; then cemented onto the primary (baby) teeth to prevent further damage until these teeth are naturally lost.

Tooth Colored Fillings
(Composite Resin)

Tooth colored fillings are used to restore front or back teeth or where cosmetic appearance is important. Composites are used to repair fractured teeth and/or areas of decay. The shade of the composite restorative material is matched as closely as possible to the color of the natural teeth.

X-Rays (Radiographs)

In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. X-rays can often show weaknesses in the tooth structure that may not be visible with the naked eye.

Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

For a healthy child, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a visit to the pediatric dentist at least every six months to evaluate your child’s oral health and development. However, if your child has special needs or is more predisposed to dental caries, the dentist may recommend more frequent visits to more closely manage your child’s oral health.

Fluoride

Cavities form when there is a weakening in the mineral composition of the enamel of your teeth. Fluoride promotes the remineralization of these decalcified spots, therefore helping to prevent cavities. An excess of fluoride may damage developing teeth leading to fluorosis; while a deficit of fluoride leaves your child’s teeth susceptible to tooth decay. Fluorosis presents in various forms that affect developing permanent teeth by causing white spots to form.

Early (Interceptive) Orthodontic Care

It's never too early to keep an eye on your child's oral development. Dr. Dunston can identify malocclusion (crowded or crooked teeth) or bite problems and actively intervene to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth. Interceptive orthodontic treatment can prevent more extensive treatment later. Dr. Dunston checks the progress of your child’s bite and jaw development with routine dental examinations. This early assessment of your child’s teeth may prevent extensive orthodontic work in his/her future.

Extractions (Tooth Removal)

Extractions are done only as a last resort in the case of severe tooth decay. If a primary molar is removed prematurely, a space maintainer will be placed. Some extractions are needed for orthodontic reasons to help facilitate tooth alignment when crowded teeth are present. Primary teeth are essential in maintaining the correct spacing in your child’s jaw for the permanent teeth.

Pulp Treatment (Pulpotomy)

Pulp therapy (pulpotomy) is the treatment of infected nerves and blood vessels in teeth. The purpose of a pulpotomy is to extend the life of the baby tooth, thereby avoiding the need for extraction and a space maintainer, until the eruption of the permanent tooth. In other words, the tooth can be preserved for chewing food and maintaining proper space for permanent teeth, as well as helping your child to preserve a healthy, happy smile.

Sealants

Sealants are thin, white plastic coatings that are applied to the tops or chewing surfaces of back teeth and are highly effective in preventing tooth decay. The naturally occurring pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of teeth can often collect plaque. These small grooves and cracks are the most susceptible to cavities in children and teens and benefit the least from topical fluoride. Sealants and fluoride work together to help prevent tooth decay.

10 Dental Health Tips
for Parents...

  • Talk to them about their teeth often.
  • Let them watch you brush your teeth.
  • Get them an age appropriate toothbrush and paste.
  • Assist them While brushing their teeth until they can on their own.
  • Develop in them the habit of brushing morning and at night.
  • Don't give them sugary food/drink before bedtime.
  • Sing or play music while they brush- make it fun!
  • Make a sticker reward chart for nights they brush.
  • Get a stepping to help them reach the sink,
  • Have older siblings get in on the fun.
Little Smiles
Little Smiles

Why Pediatric Dentist
for your child ?

  • Pediatric Dentist receives three years of additional training for treating children's dental problems.
  • They are specialized in handling children including neonates & infants.
  • Expert in providing child centric & child safe environment.
  • More focused on preventive treatments.
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