Childs tooth decay?!
Question:
Childs tooth decay?
My son found out today at the dentist he has 2 rotten teeth. One they want to pull because they said he will be losing it soon anyway (they are both baby teeth) and the other they want to do a filling because they say its a back tooth that he wont be losing for a few years. They want to use nitrous oxide also.
I have good teeth and so does my older child so Im unfamilar with this. He's already nine why wouldnt they pull both? My daughter finished her braces at age 12. So why would they say that one tooth will be a few more years? And Ive never had nitrous just wondering what thats like also.
This office is very nice and swanky. I know they didnt get like that by not charging for it! My portion for this work will be $95. So I want to be sure Im doing the right thing!
Any advice would be great thanks!
Answers:
WOW!! I can't believe the ignorance here. Not you! The answers! Where are all the dentists to help here?!
Okay, here's an explanation for your son's treatment:
The reason they are recommending that his molar tooth is filled and not extracted is because if they remove his molar, his other baby teeth will move over time and bridge the gap, leaving no room for his permanent molar to come through in its place, meaning crowded teeth and costly orthodontics down the track. ( Very odd that your daughter finished her braces at 12, they aren't usually placed until then!! Braces are more often than not placed when ALL of the permanent teeth are present except for special circumstances) If he was to have his baby molar removed now he would need something called a "Space maintainer" fitted which is an orthodontic appliance to maintain a space until he gets older (the adult molars come through at 12, 14 and 18-25). Also a costly option.
Nitrous oxide is a good thing for kids who haven't had any or very little treatment, especially if they are having teeth removed. it makes the appointment alot easier to cope with, meaning that future appointments will be less of an anxiety issue as he gets older. You may like him to go without, but it's ultimately a matter of his initial anxiety level and whether you believe he is okay without it. Depends on the individual! Hope this helps!