Services

Our Dental Services

It’s never too early to get your child started on the path toward a lifetime of good oral health, and there are many services we provide to do exactly that. Monitoring your child’s dental growth and development, and preventing and intercepting dental diseases along the way, is a primary focus of our practice. Learn more about Pediatric Dentistry.

Our services include:

Age One Dental Visit

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s first checkup should occur by age 1. At this important visit we will check the baby teeth for early cavities, show you how to care for a young child’s mouth properly, go over your child’s developmental milestones, and discuss the importance of good oral hygiene. Learn more about the Age One Dental Visit.

Fillings

Fillings are used to seal a small hole (cavity) in your tooth that is caused by decay. This simple, painless procedure prevents decay bacteria from spreading further into your tooth, and possibly infecting the root canal. Both metal fillings and tooth-colored fillings are available. Learn more about Fillings.

Sealants

Dental sealants are invisible plastic resin coatings that smooth out the chewing surfaces of the back teeth — the place where your child is most likely to get tooth decay. A sealed tooth is far less likely to develop a cavity, which could require expensive dental treatment and cause your child pain. Learn more about Dental Sealants.

Children with Special Healthcare Needs

Proper dental care is just as important for children with special needs as it is for any child. Yet it’s sometimes more difficult for kids with special needs to get optimal care. We can help, with appropriate procedures and extra personal attention in the office.

Bonding

Cosmetic bonding uses tooth-colored materials to replace missing tooth structure or hide minor defects like chips, discoloration, or irregular spacing. It’s a great option for children and teens, who often need to wait for their teeth to mature before choosing a more permanent restoration. Learn more about Bonding.

Crowns

Crowns are coverings placed over damaged teeth to strengthen them, and allow them to look and function normally again. Metal crowns are sometimes recommended as a temporary solution for damaged baby teeth, until the permanent teeth come in.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoridated water has been called one of the most significant health achievements of the 20th century — but not every child gets enough fluoride. That’s one reason why a topical fluoride supplement, applied here in the dental office, may be recommended for your child. Learn more about Fluoride & Your Child.

Interceptive Orthodontics

It’s easier to treat many orthodontic problems during childhood because the body is still developing rapidly. Whether you need standard braces, clear aligners, or appliances like palatal expanders, it’s possible to make big changes in a short period of time. Learn more about the Early Orthodontic Treatment.

Space Maintainers

If your child loses a baby tooth prematurely, a “space maintainer” may be needed to hold the space open until the permanent tooth comes in to fill it. This appliance will help your child’s bite develop properly — and hopefully avoid the need for braces later on. Learn more about Space Maintainers.

Mouthguards

Besides being painful, a child’s sports-related dental injury can mean time lost from school and work, plus substantial cost. A properly fitted, comfortable mouthguard, worn at practice and games, can greatly reduce the likelihood of serious dental injury. Learn more about Mouthguards for Children.

Sedation Dentistry and General Anesthesia

Pediatric dentists are skilled in helping ease anxiety that children may feel regarding dental treatment. For some children, however, they may need additional help to relax. We often use nitrous oxide to help children feel more calm. For kids who are especially fearful, sedation dentistry can be of great benefit. Depending on the level of anxiety and amount of treatment necessary, we may recommend in-office oral sedation, or general anesthesia. Dr. Barber has hospital privileges at St. Joseph Mercy Health System. 

Emergency Dental Treatment

If you have a life-threatening or severe injury, call 911 or go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room. We can treat a variety of traumatic dental injuries, including teeth that have been chipped, moved, or knocked out entirely. Please call our office for assistance.