Question:
I took my (5 yr old) son to the dentist a year and a half ago and had to put in three stainless crowns, as well as a root canal under one of them. Today I took my 2.5 year old in, for what was supposed to be a preventative filling on a "sugar bug," a spot which looked like it might turn into a cavity. She required a baby root canal (a pulpectomy, or something, with sedation). It'a been explained to me that kids' teeth explode into cavities once the surface is broken, so I didn't give my younger one the gummie fruit snacks or the sticky candies my older one had. I have not been great with brushing, but it's a battle every day and the dentists tell you not to traumatize them, yet get it done.
My question is, why did we (the parent now generation) have fillings and not all this reparational work? I had 12 cavities by the time I was 13 or so..but I ate lots of candy and brushed like crap. Why are my kids needing root canals and crowns before they're 5? Is it flouride in the water
Answers:
Dentistry has changed dramatioacally with an emphasis on prevention. But I think it is important to let your dentist know your concerns and what you, as a parent/consumer are willing to accept. Don't be afraid to decline services that may not be absolutely necessary. You can always change to a dentist who is more supportive of your views and concerns. I am sure most dentists are scrupulous, but like all service professionals, dentists are looking for every opportunity to increase billings - that's just the truth. It may be 'advised' to purchase a certain service, but is it really necessary? Ask lots of questions and don't be satisfied unless you get answers that make sense to you. Be a smart consumer.
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