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Dental Caries, Pediatric

Ray J. Jurado, DDS Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Dental caries is the process of tooth structure demineralization, ultimately leading to cavitation (cavities). Over time, bacterial metabolism of carbohydrates produces acid, leading...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Frequent carbohydrate challenge (bottle, juice, snacks, sweets, meds, etc.)

  • Inconsistent brushing and flossing after meals

  • Sensitivity or pain to cold or hot foods, sweets, or biting

  • Pas...

TREATMENT

MEDICATION

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for symptomatic pain management. See antibiotic therapy in the chapter “Dental Infections.” 

ADDITIONAL THERAPIES

  • Timely restorative care (fillings, crowns...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Dental caries essentially results from sugar exposure over the course of time. Prevention of dental caries should focus on minimizing frequency of sugary beverage...

ADDITIONAL READING

CODES

ICD9

  • 521.00 Dental caries, unspecified

  • 522.0 Pulpitis

  • 522.5 Periapical abscess without sinus

  • 522.4 Acute apical periodontitis of pulpal origin

ICD10

  • K02.9 Dental caries, unspecified

  • K04.0 Pulpitis

  • K04.7...

FAQ

  • Q: When should I refer my patient for his/her first dental visit?

  • A: Children should have their first dental visit 6 months after the eruption of their first tooth or around 1 year of age. This fir...

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