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Pediatric Care (Children) : A very large part of Doctor Eddy's practice consists of pediatric care. Doctor Eddy recommends that children start visiting the dentist when they turn three years old. Doctor Eddy's office does not use any general anesthesia or pre-medication on children due to their concern for the child's safety. Digital x-rays (x-rays taken on a computer) which uses 50% less radiation than traditional x-rays are also used on children.

Child Cleanings : A child's cleaning is similar to an adult.  A cleanings is a scaling and polishing procedure performed to remove plaque, calculus (tartar), and stains. Plaque is soft material that builds up on a person's teeth when brushing is not performed properly. If plaque remains on the tooth surface for more than 24 hours it begins to calcify (harden) forming a thin layer of calculus (tartar). Tartar, which is a porous material, will attract more plaque to the area. This forms additional layers of tartar unless properly removed. The thorough scaling and polishing procedure is followed by a fluoride treatment which helps to put a protective coating on the teeth to minimize chances of decay. Children will receive a full exam, including an evaluation for orthodontics (braces).

Evaluations (Exams) : Doctor Eddy will perform a Comprehensive Oral Evaluation during a child's first visit. This procedure is an initial, thorough and comprehensive evaluation and recording of the child's oral health. A child returning for his/her regular cleaning will receive a Periodic Evaluation. This evaluation determines if the child has had any changes in his/her dental or medical; health status since the previous evaluation. An oral cancer screening as well as an orthodontic evaluation is also routinely performed at each cleaning appointment.

X-rays : Doctor Eddy's office uses digital x-rays, which are x-rays taken on a computer.  The advantage of digital x-rays versus traditional ones are: significant reduction of radiation (50% less radiation), greater patient comfort, immediate results, superior visibility and larger x-rays to provide better treatment. X-rays are diagnostic tools that allow Doctor Eddy to find cavities interproximally (between the teeth) which would not normally be visible. A first visit would require 2 or more x-rays. Routine x-rays (2 - 4 films) are recommended by the ADA (American Dental Association) and Doctor Eddy once a year.  Full mouth x-rays are usually taken every 3-5 years.

Sealants : A sealant is a white or clear plastic coating placed on the top of the permanent molars.  This coating fills in all of the natural grooves where decay is most likely to happen, helping to prevent decay (cavities).  This procedure requires no anesthesia and is usually performed by the hygienist.

White Fillings : A tooth can become decayed by bacteria in the mouth.  This decay must be removed and filled with special dental materials in order for the tooth to return to its' original healthy state.   White fillings are a mixture of plastic resins which have been used for many years. These fillings are just as strong and last just as long as silver fillings.  Patients with white fillings also experience less sensitivity after the operation.  Doctor Eddy also uses white fillings for children since there is fluoride in these fillings which help to prevent future decay.

Fluoride : There are two ways for a person's body to receive adequate amounts of fluoride, which is a naturally occurring mineral. Systemic absorption is accomplished by ingesting a pill or drinking fluoridated water. This allows the fluoride to be incorporated into the bones. This systemic fluoride makes a person's bones and teeth stronger. The second way in which fluoride can help protect a persons teeth is topically. Topical fluoride is found in certain toothpastes and is applied to children and young adults during a regular Prophylaxis. This topical fluoride builds up a protective layer over the enamel of the tooth which can lower the risk of bacteria reaching the tooth and causing a cavity.