The Operative Visit

Despite the care a patient takes to maintain good dental health, a baby tooth that develops a cavity can often necessitate a visit to see Dr. Joe and his assistant. Though baby teeth will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth, posterior baby teeth will remain in a child’s mouth to around age twelve. Posterior baby teeth play a unique role in the development of permanent dentition by acting as spacers until the new adult teeth erupt and displace them. If those teeth are compromised and space is lost, orthodontic issues can result. Tiny Tooth Dental provides a unique operative experience for our patients. Dr. Joe is comfortable allowing a parent or guardian to enter the treatment room with the child to witness the procedures and understand what is happening during the operative visit. Staying positive and encouraging children to listen to instructions will assist in a successful operative visit.

Special considerations when treating children

1.       Time is distorted for a child. Fifteen minutes to a child can feel like an eternity. Dr. Joe will work as fast as he can to keep the child from losing patience or beginning to panic.
2.       It can be difficult for children to sit still. It is very important that the child stays still so the doctor can keep the child safe, avoid starting the procedure over, and ultimately do good work.
3.       Children often mistake pressure for pain. They may cry, but they are not hurt. Dr. Joe has the experience to determine if a child is hurting.
4.       Sometimes they dislike how the lip feels when numb. This can cause a good patient to react badly to treatment. We try to prepare them as much as possible for the feeling.
5.       The area of treatment is very small. Dr. Joe is focused on a 10-millimeter area when treating baby teeth. Please do not distract him while working.
6.       Once Dr. Joe begins, he must complete the treatment. We cannot leave a hole in a tooth. If your child loses control, be prepared to restrain with the use of a papoose wrap.
7.       Fear and anxiety can cause irrational behavior. Be aware the doctor will use voice control to get a child’s attention if they begin to panic or move erratically.
8.       If a child has a total meltdown, we cannot pause for breaks. We understand that it is difficult to watch your child cry, scream or struggle, but we are not doing them any favors by prolonging the procedure, and we would be unlikely to get the child to lie back again once they are free.
9.       Every visit can be unpredictable. Sometimes a great first visit creates anxiety, and the second visit is more difficult. The hope is that each visit leads to understanding, experience, and growth.
10.   Children can be manipulative. Very strong-willed children will use phrases such as “ow, ow”, “it hurts”, “let me up”, “I want to go home”, I need to go to the bathroom” and other phrases to get out of the dental chair. Keep in mind the Doctor may be simply painting the tooth, using cotton rolls, or only looking and using his mirror.

The Cooperative Child

-          Listens to all instructions
-          Remains still and does not move during treatment
-          May cry and be anxious or scared, but does not impede dental treatment
-          Allows nitrous oxide to take effect by breathing through the nose

The Uncooperative Child

-          Refuses to get in the chair or lie back in the chair
-          Is angry and/or argumentative
-          Kicks and shakes the head during treatment
-          Screams and uses words such as “ow” and “it hurts” when the area is numb
-          Grabs at the doctor’s and assistant’s hands or instruments

The following guidelines must be followed to enter the treatment room

1.       First and foremost, please be a silent partner. Too many people talking can be confusing for children. Dr. Joe will ask for your assistance if needed.
2.       Only one person may enter the treatment room with the child. If young siblings are also present, the parent will be asked to remain in reception.
3.       You will be asked to stay within a particular area and hold your child’s hand if you wish.
4.       No pictures or videos may be taken in the treatment room.
5.       Do not answer your phone or make phone calls while in the treatment room.
6.       Refrain from asking your child questions while the doctor is working. Do not use words such as shot, hurt, pain or drill.
7.       Do not use the dentist as punishment. Example “if you don’t behave, the dentist will give you a shot”.