Aesthetic Crowns & Fillings

At Dental Smart Kids, we pride ourselves on offering a variety of dental treatments that combine functionality with aesthetics, ensuring that your child’s smile is as beautiful as it is healthy. Understanding the importance of a confident smile, particularly in childhood, we provide cosmetic dental solutions like aesthetic crowns and fillings that are designed to look natural and discreet.

Aesthetic Crowns

When a child’s tooth is damaged or decayed, it may be necessary to place a crown to restore its shape, strength, and function. Our pediatric dental practice offers advanced options like zirconia white crowns and Bioflex crowns.

• Zirconia White Crowns — Crafted from strong and durable zirconium dioxide, these crowns offer a superior aesthetic option. They are known for their remarkable ability to blend with the natural color of surrounding teeth, providing a seamless appearance. Zirconia crowns are metal-free, biocompatible, and resistant to chips or fractures, making them an excellent choice for children’s teeth.
• Bioflex Crowns — Bioflex crowns present a flexible and tooth-colored alternative that is both functional and visually appealing. These crowns are particularly beneficial for children who may have allergies or sensitivities to other materials, as they are metal-free and hypoallergenic. The flexibility of Bioflex crowns allows for a snug fit and a more natural feel, which can be comforting for children undergoing dental treatments.

Both types of crowns are custom-made to fit the unique contours of your child’s teeth, ensuring comfort and a natural look. They are particularly suitable for front teeth restorations where aesthetics are crucial.

White Fillings

In the case of cavities, white fillings are our go-to solution to restore the tooth while maintaining its natural appearance. These fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made from a tooth-colored resin that blends with the natural color of the tooth’s surface. Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, white fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing support and reducing the chance of future fractures. They are a discreet and effective way to treat cavities without drawing attention to the dental work.

At Dental Smart Kids, we are committed to offering the latest advancements in pediatric dental care. We understand that a bright and natural-looking smile can significantly impact a child’s self-esteem and quality of life. That’s why we offer aesthetic crowns and fillings that not only restore function but also provide a visually pleasing result.

Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry represents a revolutionary approach to dental care, one that Dental Smart Kids is proud to offer to our young patients. This advanced technology enhances comfort, precision, and healing in various dental procedures. Especially for children, who may experience anxiety or fear related to dental visits, laser dentistry can provide a less intimidating and more pleasant experience.

Solea Laser

At Dental Smart Kids, we’re not just about treating dental issues — we’re about creating positive childhood memories associated with dental health. The Solea Laser is our tool of choice to achieve this, ensuring each visit is as painless and anxiety-free as possible. Our compassionate approach, coupled with the latest technology, empowers us to provide exceptional dental care that respects the sensitivities of our youngest patients.

The Solea Laser is a cutting-edge dental tool that uses concentrated light energy to perform a variety of dental procedures with unprecedented precision and speed. As an all-tissue laser, it is versatile enough to treat both soft and hard tissue, making it suitable for a wide array of treatments in pediatric dentistry. At Dental Smart Kids, we’re excited to showcase how this state-of-the-art dental laser transforms the dental visit experience for children and parents alike.

Our commitment to providing our little patients with the best care includes ensuring their utmost comfort. Here’s how the Solea Laser makes a difference:

• Minimally Invasive — With no need for drills or scalpel incisions, procedures are far less intimidating.
• Reduced Anxiety — The quiet operation and gentle touch of the laser alleviate the fear and stress associated with dental visits.
• Little To No Anesthesia — Many procedures can be completed without the need for numbing injections, freeing children from the discomfort of needles.
• Less Bleeding & Swelling — The laser’s cauterizing ability minimizes bleeding and swelling in soft tissue procedures.
• Quicker Recovery — Healing times are significantly reduced, thanks to the precision and reduced trauma of laser treatments.
• Preservation Of Tooth Structure — Focused energy allows for the selective removal of decay while conserving healthy tooth enamel.

At Dental Smart Kids, we believe that the introduction of the Solea Laser into our practice has not only elevated the quality of our services but also transformed the way children perceive dental care. We are passionate about creating a welcoming, stress-free environment where young smiles can thrive.

Soft Tissue Procedures

Lip Tie / Tongue Tie (Laser Frenectomy)

A frenectomy is a procedure used to correct lip or tongue ties — conditions where the frenum, a small fold of tissue that supports or restricts the movement of a part of the body, limits movement and may cause issues with feeding, speech, or oral hygiene.

The Laser Advantage:

• Precision — The laser allows for accurate targeting of the frenum, ensuring only the necessary tissue is treated.
• Less Discomfort — With lasers, there’s minimal pressure and no cutting, making the experience more comfortable.
• Quicker Healing — Laser frenectomies lead to faster recovery times thanks to the reduced trauma to the treated area.
• Lower Risk Of Infection — Lasers sterilize as they work, decreasing the chances of post-procedure infections.

Gingivectomy

Gingivectomy, a procedure designed to remove and reshape loose or diseased gum tissue, can also benefit from the precision of laser dentistry.

Benefits for Pediatric Care:

• Cosmetic & Functional Improvement — Laser gingivectomies help children who may have excessive gum tissue due to genetics, medication, or other health issues.
• Gentleness — The treatment is less invasive than traditional methods, making it ideal for young patients.
• Promotes Oral Health — By removing excess gum tissue, lasers help expose more of the tooth surface for better oral hygiene and prevent future gum issues.

Whether addressing functional concerns with a frenectomy or enhancing a child’s smile through a gingivectomy, our use of laser technology epitomizes our dedication to providing care that children don’t need to fear. We’re changing the narrative of pediatric dental health, one gentle laser procedure at a time.

Hard Tissue Procedures

No-Anesthesia Fillings

Discover the revolutionary approach to pediatric dental care with our hard tissue laser procedures at Dental Smart Kids. Utilizing the latest in dental technology, we ensure children receive the best possible care without the typical discomfort associated with traditional dental methods. One of the most remarkable advancements within our clinic is the ability to perform no-anesthesia fillings, marking a significant stride in stress-free dentistry for youngsters.

Fillings are a common necessity in pediatric dentistry, often required to treat cavities caused by tooth decay. Traditional fillings can be a source of anxiety for both children and their parents, largely due to the anticipation of needles and the sound and sensation of drilling.

With the Solea Laser, our patients and their parents can expect:

• A Painless Experience — Our hard tissue lasers can remove decay with such precision that many patients don’t need anesthesia, making for a painless experience.
• Drill-Free Dentistry — The laser replaces the drill, eliminating the daunting noise and vibration that can cause distress.
• Conservative Treatment — Lasers are incredibly precise, allowing us to preserve more of the healthy tooth structure while removing decay.
• Immediate Recovery — Without the numbness from anesthesia, kids can return to their normal activities right after the procedure.

The no-anesthesia filling is just one example of our dedication to providing a fear-free dental environment. Through the use of hard tissue lasers, we empower children to maintain their oral health while fostering positive associations with dental care. At Dental Smart Kids, we’re not just filling teeth — we’re shaping experiences that lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Pediatric Nerve Treatment

At Dental Smart Kids, we combine compassion with state-of-the-art practices to ensure the best oral care for your child, especially when it involves sensitive procedures like pediatric nerve treatment. Our expert pediatric dentists excel in providing treatments that safeguard the health of the tooth’s pulp — home to its nerves and blood vessels — when confronted with injury or infection.

Also known as a pulpotomy or “baby root canal,” pediatric nerve treatment is critical when decay or trauma reaches deep into the nerve of a tooth. This type of procedure aims to conserve and rehabilitate the affected tooth. Primary teeth, although temporary, are vital for chewing, speech development, and holding space for the forthcoming permanent teeth, making their preservation a top priority.

Our Process

• A focus on a child-friendly approach ensures that our little patients have a worry-free and non-intimidating experience.
• We employ cutting-edge pediatric endodontic methods to achieve efficient and successful outcomes.
• Our treatments strive to maintain the natural tooth structure, fostering the proper growth and alignment of your child’s mouth.

Our approach begins with an accurate diagnosis using meticulous examination techniques and modern imaging tools. Once a need for nerve treatment is confirmed, we use anesthesia administered with utmost care to guarantee comfort throughout the procedure. The affected pulp tissue is then gently removed, the area is thoroughly sterilized to prevent reinfection, and a biocompatible material is used to fill the tooth. Restoring the tooth with a dental crown follows, aimed at protecting it while ensuring it blends seamlessly with your child’s smile.

Our team at Dental Smart Kids specializes in creating a soothing and healing environment where your child can receive expert dental care with ease and confidence. Trust in our dedicated approach to nerve treatment, where your child’s healthy, happy smile is our mission.

Tooth Extractions

At Dental Smart Kids, we recognize that the thought of tooth extractions can be daunting for both children and parents. Our compassionate dental team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring a safe and stress-free experience. Tooth extractions in pediatric dentistry are sometimes necessary to maintain oral health and prevent future complications.

Children may need a tooth extracted for various reasons, such as extensive decay, trauma, or as part of orthodontic treatment plans to manage space for erupting permanent teeth. Another common scenario is when “baby” teeth don’t fall out in time to allow for the proper emergence of their permanent counterparts.

Our gentle approach to extractions

Our primary goal during any extraction procedure is the comfort and safety of our young patients. We provide a nurturing environment where kids feel calm and cared for. With a gentle touch, we can administer local anesthesia as needed for patients who may have a higher anxiety level. However, with the Solea Laser, our extraction procedures are painless and require a shorter recovery time.

During the extraction, our skilled pediatric dentists carefully remove the tooth, taking great care to minimize the impact on surrounding teeth and tissues. After the tooth is extracted, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to facilitate a smooth and speedy recovery. This includes tips on managing discomfort, dietary recommendations, and oral hygiene practices to promote healing.

Dental Smart Kids is committed to providing your child with the highest quality of dental care, especially when it comes to procedures like tooth extractions. By entrusting us with your child’s oral health, you’re choosing a team that values the importance of a positive dental experience, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Special Needs Dentistry

At Dental Smart Kids, we hold dear the belief that every child deserves exceptional dental care, tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Recognizing the challenges faced by children with special needs, we have committed ourselves to providing a dental practice that is not only accommodating but fully equipped to ensure a comfortable and positive experience for these wonderful children.

Special needs dentistry is a crucial branch of dental care that focuses on addressing the oral health of children with a wide array of developmental, medical, or cognitive conditions. These may include children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and other conditions that require extra care and understanding.

Our approach

We believe in a personalized approach to dental care. Our team is trained to adapt to each child’s specific health requirements, behavioral needs, and levels of comfort. We work closely with parents and caregivers to create a treatment plan that respects the individuality and dignity of every child.

Our specially designed facility offers a calm and welcoming environment to reduce any potential stress or anxiety associated with dental visits. We utilize various techniques to help prepare our patients for their appointments, such as:

• Special care at appointments to familiarize children with our office
• A “tell-show-do” technique where we explain and demonstrate each step before proceeding
• Sedation options when necessary, always administered with the highest regard for safety

our commitment

At Dental Smart Kids, every member of our team is dedicated to making sure your child’s visit is as rewarding as it is comforting. We are steadfast in our commitment to extending the most compassionate and competent care to all children, especially those with special needs.

By choosing us, you’re not just finding a dentist for your child; you’re joining a community devoted to nurturing your child’s oral health and overall well-being.

Orthodontic Treatment

At Dental Smart Kids, we believe every child deserves a smile that’s both healthy and confident. That’s why we’re proud to offer comprehensive orthodontic solutions tailored specifically for our youngest patients. A key component of our approach is Invisalign First, an innovative treatment designed to address the unique needs of growing children.

Our comprehensive orthodontic treatment with Invisalign First starts with a detailed examination of your child’s teeth and jaws using the advanced iTero scanner. This digital scanning technology allows us to create a precise 3D model of your child’s mouth and design a customized treatment plan that meets their specific needs.

Throughout the treatment, children enjoy seeing the progress of their smiles, while parents appreciate the convenience and aesthetic appeal of the clear aligners. In addition, the removable nature of Invisalign First aligners means that children can continue to eat their favorite foods and easily clean their teeth, promoting better overall oral health.

At Dental Smart Kids, we are committed to making the orthodontic experience positive and stress-free for both children and their families. Our team provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the entire treatment process, ensuring that every question is answered and every concern is addressed.

Choosing comprehensive orthodontics for your child at Dental Smart Kids means choosing a path to a healthy, beautiful smile in a way that’s comfortable, convenient, and tailored to their developmental needs. It’s about giving them the confidence to smile brightly today and paving the way for continued oral health in the future.

Invisalign For Kids (Phase 1)

At Dental Smart Kids, we understand that every child’s smile is unique, and so are their dental needs. That’s why we’re proud to offer Invisalign as an effective, virtually invisible solution to straighten teeth and correct bite issues from an early age. It’s not just about the aesthetics; it’s about setting a foundation for a healthy, functional mouth well into adulthood.

Early orthodontic treatment, often referred to as Phase 1, typically begins between the ages of 6 and 10. It’s designed to address jaw growth, permanent tooth eruption, and other developmental concerns that can be more easily corrected while the child’s dental structures are still forming.

The role of Invisalign in Phase 1 Treatment includes:

• Tailored For Growing Smiles — Invisalign clear aligners for kids are specifically designed for smaller mouths with growing teeth, providing a custom fit that adapts to their developing dentition.
• Preventative Approach — By guiding teeth as they emerge, Invisalign can prevent more severe problems later on, often reducing the need for extensive orthodontic work in the future.
• Promotes Healthy Oral Habits — Clear aligners are removable, making it easy for kids to maintain good oral hygiene practices without the hassle of navigating around braces.

the benefits of invisalign

• Aesthetically Pleasing — The clear and discreet nature of Invisalign aligners allows kids to smile confidently throughout treatment.
• Comfort — With no sharp edges or wires, Invisalign avoids the discomfort often associated with traditional metal braces.
• Convenience — Removable aligners mean children can eat, brush, and floss without restrictions, making oral care simple and effective.
• Predictable Results — Utilizing advanced 3D imaging technology, we can plan the entire treatment process with precision and predict the outcome, giving parents and children a clear vision of the future smile.

Invisalign for kids is much more than just a path to a straighter smile; it’s an investment in your child’s long-term dental health. Dental Smart Kids is dedicated to providing forward-thinking solutions like Invisalign early treatment, ensuring your child’s comfort and confidence every step of the way.

Sedation Dentistry

At Dental Smart Kids, we understand that some children may require more than sedation to effectively manage their dental anxiety or special health care needs. For these cases, we offer in-house anesthesia, allowing us to perform essential dental procedures while ensuring complete comfort and safety for your child.

We have partnered with the distinguished Pediatric Dental Anesthesia Associates to provide in-house general anesthesia services administered by highly experienced and compassionate anesthesiologists. Dr. Caldwell, Dr. Deborah Plagenhoef, and Dr. Jeff Plagenhoef are all board-certified MDs specializing in pediatric anesthesia, each one bringing a wealth of experience and a gentle touch to our dental practice.

General anesthesia is sometimes the best option for children who cannot tolerate dental treatment due to severe anxiety, developmental disabilities, or certain medical conditions. Under the expert care of our anesthesiologists, your child will sleep peacefully through their dental procedure, completely unaware of the treatment being performed. This allows our pediatric dentists to work efficiently and without interruption, ensuring high-quality dental care is delivered in a single visit.