The traditional method of treating cavities involves the use of a drill to remove decayed tissue, followed by the placement of a filling. Unfortunately, this process can be uncomfortable — perhaps even frightening — for some kids. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was an easier, more comfortable way to address cavities? There is! Some children are eligible for the simple but effective method known as the Hall Technique.
What Is the Hall Technique?
Instead of using fillings or traditional crowns, the Hall Technique utilizes preformed stainless steel crowns. The crown seals the tooth so the decay cannot worsen. Your child can continue using the tooth to chew and bite, and when the time is right, the tooth and its crown will fall out on their own.
This simple method does not require the use of any drills or numbing shots. Plus, since a stainless steel crown is so thin, the underlying tooth does not require any modification.
Benefits of the Hall Technique
The Hall Technique offers some big benefits:
- The process typically takes just one or two appointments (depending on whether spacers are needed to create room to place the crown).
- No uncomfortable numbing injections or drilling are necessary. Even nervous and sensitive kids find the process to be tolerable.
- The crown prevents decay from worsening, which can prevent painful toothaches and dangerous infections.
- By preserving the damaged tooth until it is ready to fall out on its own, this approach preserves and protects healthy development of the oral structures.
Who Is a Candidate for the Hall Technique?
Your pediatric dentist will determine whether or not your child’s decay can be treated with the Hall Technique. Generally, this method is used when:
- A primary (baby) molar has an active cavity that has not yet affected the tooth’s nerve or pulp (the tooth’s innermost layer).
- The tooth has enough healthy structure to support a crown.
- A child is very nervous or has special needs that make more traditional treatments, such as fillings, challenging to carry out.
- Parents want to avoid the need for anesthesia or sedation.
- There is enough space in the mouth to place a preformed stainless steel crown.
The Hall Technique is a wonderful option for kids who find it difficult to get through conventional cavity treatments! Talk to your pediatric dentist to learn more.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Gardner and Vohra at Upper Dublin Pediatric Dentistry are proud to present a wide variety of preventive and restorative services for children, including the Hall Technique. If your child has spots of decay, we will be happy to discuss the available treatment options so you understand the pros and cons of each one. To learn more about us or to book an appointment for your young one, contact our office at 267-481-7707.