Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

No, professional dental cleaning does not cause enamel loss. Dentists and hygienists use tools designed to remove plaque, tartar, and stains without damaging the enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body. Scaling tools target buildup on the surface of teeth rather than the enamel itself, and routine cleaning isn’t abrasive enough to wear enamel down; the “scraping” sensation you may feel is simply the removal of hardened tartar. Enamel erosion typically comes from factors such as acidic foods, teeth grinding, aggressive brushing, or decay—not from professional cleanings.

Yes, Pulpectomy (also known as a baby tooth root canal) is safe and commonly performed in children when necessary. It's a procedure used to save a decayed or damaged primary (baby) tooth by removing the infected pulp, cleaning the area, and sealing it. Pulpectomy is generally recommended when the decay has reached the tooth’s pulp and can prevent the need for extraction, which could affect the development of the permanent teeth. When performed by a trained pediatric dentist, the procedure is safe and effective in preserving the tooth and maintaining proper oral health.

You should start brushing your child's teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts, usually around 6 months of age. At this stage, use a soft infant toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Even before the teeth come in, you can gently clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth to help remove bacteria and sugars. Early brushing helps establish good oral hygiene habits and ensures your child’s teeth develop properly.

Conscious sedation is a method used to help patients relax during dental procedures while still remaining awake and able to respond to commands. It typically involves the use of oral medications or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to reduce anxiety and discomfort. The patient stays conscious but feels calm and may have little memory of the procedure. Conscious sedation is generally safe when administered by trained professionals, and the effects wear off quickly after the procedure. However, like any sedation method, it’s important to assess the patient’s health history to minimize risks.

Yes, missing teeth should generally be replaced to maintain proper oral function and prevent long-term dental issues. Replacing missing teeth helps restore the ability to chew and speak properly, and it also prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of place, which can lead to bite problems. Options for replacement include dental implants, bridges, or dentures, depending on the situation. Replacing missing teeth can also help maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss in the jaw, which often occurs when a tooth is lost and not replaced.

Yes, it is generally recommended to place a "cap" or crown on a tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment (RCT). After an RCT, the tooth becomes more fragile and prone to fracture because the inner pulp is removed, leaving the tooth hollow and less durable. A crown helps restore the tooth’s strength, protects it from breaking, and ensures it functions properly for chewing. Crowns also improve the appearance of the tooth, especially if it’s visible when you smile. However, the need for a crown depends on factors like the tooth's location and the extent of damage before the RCT.

Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed inside the pulp, the soft tissue at the center of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. During the treatment, the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then fills and seals it to prevent further infection. In many cases, a crown is placed on the tooth afterward to restore its strength and function. RCT helps save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, and it is typically performed to relieve pain caused by infection or inflammation in the pulp.