Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Gentle, Effective Treatment Options 

At Columbus Pediatric Dentistry, we are proud to offer minimally invasive dentistry — a modern approach focused on treating cavities and preserving tooth structure with as little discomfort as possible. These techniques are ideal for young children, patients with dental anxiety, or those who may not be ready for traditional restorative procedures. 

Using evidence-based, gentle methods like Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART), and Hall Technique Crowns, Dr. Harvey provides effective care while keeping your child comfortable, calm, and confident during their dental visit.

What Is Minimally Invasive Dentistry for Kids?

Minimally invasive pediatric dentistry focuses on:

• Slowing or stopping cavity progression
• Preserving as much natural tooth as possible
• Reducing the need for shots, drills, or sedation
• Providing options for children with special healthcare needs or high dental anxiety

It’s a child-centered approach designed to treat small problems early, before they become bigger, more complicated issues.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

Interim Therapeutic Restorations (ITR) 

Interim Therapeutic Restorations (ITR) or Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) are ideal for managing early decay in a gentle, non-invasive way. Dr. Harvey uses hand instruments or a slow-speed handpiece to clean the cavity and places a temporary filling material to protect the tooth in hopes of stopping the cavity from worsening.

This technique is often used for:

• Very young or anxious children
• Children with special needs
• Situations where delaying full treatment is appropriate

It’s a safe, stress-free way to protect teeth until your child is ready for a more permanent solution.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Silver Diamine Fluoride is a powerful liquid applied directly to a cavity to stop decay in its tracks—especially when combined with improved oral hygiene and cavity-preventing habits. It works by killing cavity-causing bacteria and strengthening the tooth, all without the need for drilling, numbing, or anesthesia.

SDF is ideal for:

• Treating early childhood cavities
• Children who have difficulty sitting through traditional procedures
• Preventing decay from progressing until the tooth naturally falls out

Important to Know:
SDF causes the decayed area of the tooth to turn dark or black, which is a normal effect. This discoloration is a sign that the cavity has been treated and is no longer active. Depending on the location of the tooth, the staining may be visible. Dr. Harvey will help you decide if SDF is the best option for your child based on their specific dental needs and the tooth’s appearance.

Hall Crowns (Hall Technique)

The Hall Technique is a minimally invasive way to treat cavities in baby molars using a preformed stainless steel crown — without removing decay, no drilling, or anesthetic. Instead, the crown is placed over the tooth, sealing in the decay and preventing it from progressing.

Hall Crowns are:

• Fast and simple to place
• Ideal for cooperative or mildly anxious children
• Backed by research for long-term success

Dr. Harvey may recommend this method as a safe, effective alternative when traditional crown prep isn’t necessary or appropriate.