Hi!  I have some questions regarding dental practices for young (under 4) children.  My son (now age 3.5) has been diagnosed with severe decay and  many cavities (currently 8). The current plan of attack is to do out patient dental at the local hospital and fill all the cavities and put two silver crowns on two of his molars and seal the teeth.  I have some concerns, but have realized over the last year of trying to fill these in a dental office that this method will be easier. 

I need some help researching where it is documented that it is medically necessary to have baby teeth and that the proposed plan is the best and soundest considering the age of the child. Any information you could send my way or let me know where I could find would be appreciated.
 

This situation arises all the time, and your dentist should be able to help write the letter.  While the teeth may not be "medically necessary," allowing them to rot out is not a good plan.  The potential for infection and the problems associated with that are a big consideration (not to mention esthetics, speech development and nutrition).  Several states have passed, or are working on, legislation that won't allow a parent's major medical insurance to deny coverage for treatment of a child's teeth in the hospital.  You might check with your state pediatric dental society to find out the status where you live.

Dr. Alton McWhorter
Associate Professor
Pediatric Dentistry
 

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