Sealants fill the grooves in molars that can’t be cleaned effectively with a toothbrush. A clear coating seals the grooves and prevents bacteria from forming cavities.

Fillings are used to return a tooth to normal function after a cavity has been removed and the tooth has been cleaned. We offer both amalgam (silver) and composite (plastic resin) fillings. Amalgam fillings are longer-lasting but very visible. Composite fillings last three to 10 years and are tooth-colored for use on front and back teeth.

Bonding is a very conservative approach to treating chipped, crooked, or discolored teeth. The material used in bonding is tooth-colored and is matched to your child’s natural teeth. The downside is that bonding material can stain over time with some foods. Talk to Dr. Hobbs, or any of us, if you are considering bonding.

Removing teeth may be necessary in the course of treatment. Baby teeth usually fall out naturally and don’t present an issue. Dr. Hobbs may need to remove teeth that are significantly decayed, malpositioned, fractured, or impacted. Sedation is available and pain medication administered to make the procedure as easy as possible.

Crowns are also called “caps” and are used to cover a weak tooth to maintain structure for chewing and aesthetics. Space maintainers, or “spacers,” replace lost baby teeth so the other baby teeth don’t drift and push the adult teeth out of place.

Some very young children, children with special needs, or apprehensive children who are unable to be helped in the office may require treatment under general anesthesia. This is performed in an operating room as an outpatient procedure. Should your child need general anesthesia, rest assured that Dr. Hobbs received his training at a hospital-based residency program and still goes to the operating room on a routine basis. Dr. Hobbs is on staff at both the Lutheran and Parkview Medical Systems and would be happy to talk with you if you feel this may be the best option for your child.