In this throwback episode Dr. Russell Schafer joins Kevin and Zach to talk about his second love in dentistry...pediatrics!
Key Topics & Discussion Points:
- Early Childhood Exams (Under 5):
- Importance of parent/caregiver relationship and communication.
- Lap-to-lap/Knee-to-knee exam technique.
- Focus on diet (sugar intake) and sleep (snoring).
- Identifying early signs of demineralization.
- Goal: Creating a safe dental home.
- Older Children (5-6 and up):
- Expectation of tolerating bitewing and PA radiographs.
- Addressing parent's anxieties and managing expectations.
- Importance of behavior management with both child and parent.
- Interproximal Decay:
- Varying treatment philosophies (aggressive vs. conservative).
- Stainless steel crowns vs. composite restorations.
- When to refer to a pediatric dentist.
- Pulpotomies:
- Different techniques and materials (Formocresol, Ferric Sulfate, MTA).
- Discussion on necrotic pulp and treatment options (extraction).
- Pulpotomies for diagnosis vs. therapy.
- Nitrous Oxide:
- Benefits of nitrous oxide for pediatric patients.
- Dosage and administration techniques.
- Anesthesia:
- Choice of anesthetic (Lidocaine vs. Septocaine).
- Techniques for minimizing discomfort during injections (e.g., shaking, "cold water" analogy).
- Importance of adequate anesthesia for procedures.
- Sealants:
- Concerns about over-prescription and improper technique.
- Discussion on the effectiveness of sealants.
- Alternative approach: Occlusal composites.
- Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF):
- Use of SDF for caries management.
- SDF as a "time-buying" strategy.
- When to use SDF vs. restorative treatment.
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The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.
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