Skyline PEdiatric Dentistry Services

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Age one dental visits

We specialize in first-time appointments for infants. Learn more here.

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Routine exam

We use a small mirror to see the areas behind and between teeth and gums, as well as check for the softening of tooth enamel and dentin. We are also checking for swelling of gums in any areas, mouth sores, and redness. We also measure the periodontal pockets, which are the spaces between the top of the gum line and where the gum tissues firmly attaches to the tooth.

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Teeth cleaning

We start our cleanings by scraping off built-up plaque and tartar that collects above and below the gum line. Then, we floss between and around every tooth to remove any plaque or food particles. Afterwards, we use a tooth polisher and flavored paste to give the teeth a smooth and shiny finish so that plaque will not collect as easily on them between visits to the dentist.

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Diagnostic x-rays

We take x-ray pictures of the mouth so we can see issues below the surface that can’t be seen with routine exams. The images show us visible parts of your teeth as well as the roots below the gum line and your jaw bones. This helps us to accurately diagnose issues, as well as keep an ongoing dental record.

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Flouride treatments

Fluoride is one of the best and safest ways we can prevent cavities by making teeth stronger and more resistant to acid. It not only reduces the risk of cavities, it can even help reverse early signs of decay.

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White fillings

Unlike amalgam fillings, which are held in place by the shape of the cavity, white fillings (composite resin) bond with the tooth itself. This means less room for decay to creep in, as well as an overall stronger tooth structure. The color of the filling blends perfectly with your child’s teeth leaving a natural looking smile.

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Sealants

Dental sealants are protective coating that are painted onto the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars, filling the deep grooves that are hard for children to properly clean by brushing. It’s an option for children to get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in, protecting these teeth during these early cavity-prone years.

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Tooth extraction

Sometimes teeth need to be extracted if it’s badly decayed, fractured beyond repair, preventing a permanent tooth from coming into place, or excessively crowding other teeth. We can evaluate your child’s teeth and figure out whether or not extracting a baby tooth is the best decision.

Options for sedation during treatment

As you can imagine, dental treatment in young patients can sometimes be very challenging. This challenge depends not only on the extensiveness of the treatment plan but also on each patient as children’s behavior is as varied as children themselves. For very young patients, patients with special healthcare needs, or patients who are too anxious to cooperate in the traditional dental setting, we offer Nitrous Oxide analgesia or treatment under general anesthesia.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous Oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is often used as a conscious sedative during dental treatment. The gas is administered along with oxygen and has a calming effect that helps anxious patients relax during their appointment. It is also an analgesic, making procedures more comfortable. Because it is a mild sedative, patients are still conscious and can talk to their dentist during their visit. After treatment, the nitrous is turned off and oxygen is administered for five minutes to flush any remaining gas out of the patient’s body. The effects wear off almost immediately.

Treatment under general anesthesia

Treatment under general anesthesia is a highly recommended procedure for young patients who require an extensive amount of work, or patients who aren’t able to comfortably cooperate in the dental office. This option is performed as an outpatient procedure and allows for an entire treatment plan to be safely finished in a single appointment. Dr. Woodward has operating privileges at Beatrice Community Hospital as well as Children’s Hospital and Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omaha. The anesthesia is performed by an Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist who constantly monitors your child’s vital signs, which allows Dr. Woodward to focus on and accomplish the dental treatment.