OUR SERVICES
Welcome to our Pediatric Dental practice in Hickory, NC. We understand the importance of good dental hygiene and oral care and are committed to providing you the best care in a fun, pleasant environment. Below you will find some of the services we provide. If you have any questions please visit our Frequently Asked Questions section or please give us a call.
Preventative
Routine Dental Cleaning & Checkups
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. During the Routine Checkup we will perform a thorough cleaning by one of our staff and Dr. Kim will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissue, and jaws. Dr. Kim will explain the findings with you and your child to establish a dental health plan.
Dental Decay / Cavities
Sometimes decay happens in children when a mixture of bacteria that resides on teeth and sugar come together. Acid is formed when the bacteria and sugar meet which causes the tooth’s natural structure to break down and cause what we know as cavities. Dr. Kim can often fix these cavities by using materials that can match the color of your child’s tooth which will give a natural appearance. However, if the decay has caused a tremendous amount of damage, a stainless steel crown may be required.
Sealants
Teeth are covered with a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. The bacteria change sugar into harmful acids that attack the hard layer on teeth called enamel. The back teeth are the most affected due to the pits and grooves that trap plaque. Sealants, which are a plastic material (resin) can be applied to these pit and cracks to help block plaque from building up and causing decay. It only takes a few minutes to perform this procedure. Sealants generally last several years before they need to be replaced. Over time the sealants can become loose or worn, however at each checkup Dr. Kim checks them to make sure they are still intact.
Radiographs (X-Rays)
X-Rays are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry only when necessary to protect your child’s health. X-Rays might be needed to diagnose tooth decay or abnormalities. They may be required prior to Orthodontics. Dr. Kim will discuss if your child needs X-Rays with you before any are taken of your child.
Emergency
When your child needs urgent dental treatment, Dr. Kim is ready to help. Please contact us for instructions so we may better assist you in the event of an emergency.
828-327-9029
Please keep the emergency number available and convenient.
Also, please refer to our FAQs for some help tips in the case of an Emergency
Hospital & Sedation
Sometimes, a child has severe anxiety and/or inability to cooperate which makes them a candidate for Sedation Techniques. Your child’s age, anxiety level, treatment needs and emotional well-being are some of the factors which will determine the best approach of dental treatment. Dr. Kim will discuss these options with you in order to provide the safest care possible.
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
Most children are calm, comfortable and confident in a pediatric dental office. We have taken it very seriously to build our office as an environment that is inviting and safe for children. Sometimes, however, a child may feel anxious before or during their dental treatment. Your child may need more support than a gentle, caring manner to feel comfortable. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a safe, effective sedative agent used to calm a child’s fear of the dental treatment and allow effective communication.
Conscious Sedation is a management technique that uses medications to assist the child to cope with fear and anxiety during office treatment. This treatment will allow your child to still breathe normally on his or her own and respond to certain stimuli. This type of treatment may require more than one visit depending on your child’s needs.
General Anesthesia is a management technique that uses medication to cause the child to become unconscious and asleep while receiving dental care. General Anesthesia is administered by a physician who has special training in anesthesia at an outpatient facility or hospital. This type of treatment is completed in one visit in the dental office or outpatient hospital.