Perhaps one of the longest-lasting benefits of a healthy smile during childhood is the foundation for a healthy self-image. A healthy and attractive smile brings higher self-esteem, increased confidence and better first impressions on others. Remember what it was like making friends as a child and teenager? We strongly believe that kids deserve healthy smiles that they can feel good about.

Preventative & Comprehensive Dental Treatments

• Routine Dental Cleanings & Individual Exams
• Protective Dental Sealants
• Fluoride Treatments
• Extractions
• Space Maintainers
• Digital X-rays
• Intraoral Camera
• Custom Nightguards for Teeth Grinding
• Custom Athletic Mouthguards

Digital X-rays

Digital x-rays are a fast and comfortable tool we use to assess your dental needs. They’re safe enough to be used during pregnancy, and some studies have found that they emit up to 90% less radiation than conventional x-rays. With no chemical processing needed, digital x-rays are a smart choice for your child and the environment.

X-rays are commonly used in dental exams of patients of all ages, because many problems with the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen by the naked eye. An x-ray is needed to reveal:

• Areas of decay between teeth or below existing restorations
• Cavities
• Infections in the jaw bones
• Gum disease
• Abscesses or cysts
• Developmental abnormalities
• Some types of tumors

Intraoral Camera

Like digital x-rays, digital photographs with our intraoral camera are a useful diagnostic and patient education tool. This camera shows you what we see during your child’s exam and helps Dr. Stephen guide you through your child’s diagnosis and treatment options. It also allows our team to visualize more and diagnose issues we might not have been able to see without the up-close view that it gives us.

Restorative Pediatric Dentistry

Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings

Composite resin fillings are bonded to teeth with adhesive. The tooth-colored material is cured with a special light and the surface is polished to match the tooth, making the restoration virtually undetectable to the eye and natural feeling in the mouth.

Traditional Stainless Steel & White Crowns

A crown covers or “caps” a tooth, hence the name “crown.” When a dental filling would not be sufficient to repair a cracked or broken tooth, a crown is necessary to restore the tooth. We place both white and stainless steel (silver) crowns in our office.

Dental Emergencies

Accidents happen, and when they involve your child’s teeth or mouth they can be especially frightening. Whether it is a toothache, a broken tooth or an injury to the soft tissue, please call our office immediately to schedule a visit for your child. We treat dental emergencies promptly.

Comprehensive Orthodontics

Orthodontics

Orthodontics help ensure the proper alignment of teeth, whether that be closing gaps, straightening crooked teeth, or correcting an improper bite. We offer orthodontic treatments for young children as well as teens. Learn more on our orthodontics page!

For Your Child’s Comfort

We understand that some children feel uneasy about, or even scared of, dental treatment (and some parents, too!). We will consult with you about your child’s personality and individual needs to determine the best way to make him or her feel comfortable. We offer relaxing sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and we always follow the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry sedation guidelines.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a sweet-smelling, colorless blend of gases that can create feelings of happiness and relaxation in most patients when inhaled. Some even describe feelings of floating or silliness, which is why it is called “laughing gas.” Nitrous oxide is a safe and comfortable way to help many children to receive the dental treatment they need.

Dental Anesthesia

At The Smile Spot, we offer anesthesia services in our office, performed by a board certified dental anesthesiologist. Read more about our anesthesiologist’s credentials.