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Pediatric dental restorations in Pleasant Prairie

— treating cavities in children gently, quickly, and with lasting results

When your child has a cavity, the goal isn’t just to fill it — it’s to treat it in a way that protects their oral health, preserves their bite, and keeps them comfortable in the dental chair for years to come. At Old Oaks Dental, we use child-appropriate techniques and materials to make restorations a positive experience.

Gentle pediatric dental restorations — children warmly welcomed from age 1

Overcoming Common Misconceptions

"They're just baby teeth" — Why Treating Decay Matters

“My child’s baby teeth are going to fall out — do I really need to fill a cavity?”

It’s one of the most common questions we hear — and it makes intuitive sense. But baby teeth serve critical functions beyond chewing: they hold space for the permanent teeth developing below. When a baby tooth is lost too early due to untreated decay, neighboring teeth drift into the gap — crowding the permanent tooth’s eruption path and often requiring orthodontic treatment that could have been avoided.

Space preservation

Baby teeth act as natural space maintainers that permanent adult teeth need to erupt into correct alignments. Early, unmanaged tooth loss causes structural crowding that frequently requires extensive orthodontics.


Pain and infection

Untreated dental decay progresses steadily into the nerve, resulting in severe pain, acute abscesses, and deep infections. This can spread to surrounding permanent teeth and jeopardize a child's overall health.


Chewing and nutrition

Children experiencing chronic tooth pain naturally avoid chewing on that side of their mouth. This compromises efficient food processing and impacts proper nutrition during critical developmental years.


Dental anxiety prevention

A child who experiences a painful dental abscess or an emergency surgical extraction can develop deep dental trauma that follows them into adulthood. Treating cavities early keeps procedures simple and completely pain-free.


Restoration Menu

Our Pediatric Restorative Menu
Tooth-colored composite fillings

For small to moderate cavities in primary and permanent teeth. Matched precisely to your child's natural tooth color — rendering the boundary completely invisible in the smile line. Bonded directly to the enamel structure to maximize conservation.

Stainless steel crowns

For extensively decayed, structurally undermined, or fractured baby molars where a basic composite filling lacks the durability to hold. These pre-fabricated covers are fitted inside a single appointment, permanently protecting the back tooth until it naturally exfoliates.

Tooth-colored crowns (zirconia)

A highly aesthetic, premium alternative to stainless steel crowns for visible front teeth arches. Crafted from solid, bio-inert white zirconia ceramic, these durable pediatric crowns blend seamlessly and provide exceptional fracture resistance.

Pulp therapy (pulpotomy)

When bacterial decay has traveled deep enough to reach the living nerve chamber of a baby tooth. A pulpotomy clears out the infected nerve tissue exclusively from the crown while preserving the healthy root. This avoids extraction and saves the tooth.

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF)

An advanced, completely non-invasive liquid therapy that instantly stops active cavity progression without any drilling or numbing injections. Highly ideal for very young children or highly anxious profiles. It turns the treated decay spot permanently dark.

Behavior Management & Comfort

Making Restorations Comfortable for Children

Choosing a pediatric dental home involves balancing technical clinical excellence with genuine child friendliness. We treat behavioral comfort as a priority.

Tell-show-do technique

We explain every clinical step using age-appropriate, positive language before we do it. Demystifying the dental instruments removes surprises and helps children cooperate willingly.


Topical anesthesia first

We always apply a high-strength, sweet-flavored numbing gel to the gum tissue surfaces before administering any local anesthesia. Children often don't even feel the injection step.


Nitrous oxide available

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is safely available to help anxious or highly fidgety children remain calm and relaxed. It takes effect quickly and wears off completely before you leave.


Sedation for complex cases

For extensive multi-tooth decay or children with severe dental phobias, we coordinate gentle oral conscious sedation or hospital dentistry options to complete care safely.


Gentle, experienced pediatric restorations — building trust with your child, one appointment at a time

Child-experienced team

Our dedicated team works with young children and teenagers every single day. We understand how to communicate clearly, use positive reinforcement, and build cooperation rather than fear.

Conservative clinical approach

We customize our restorations strictly to your child's developmental age. Small micro-cavities receive conservative sealants or fillings, protecting as much natural structure as possible.

Transparent communication

We detail our findings, discuss materials, explain behavior options, and review home maintenance tips at every step. Parents are kept fully informed and in autonomous control.

Real Patient Feedback

Google reviews

Trusted by local families

4.8 ★★★★★ Google
Rodney Frankovis
Rodney Frankovis4 months ago
★★★★★

Very good. On time and thorough.

Ruth Hanson
Ruth Hanson2 months ago
★★★★★

Very thorough exam and nice people!

Marcia Lieske
Marcia Lieske4 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Very thorough, friendly & gentle. They provide detailed explanations of procedures and upfront…

Cindy Roberts
Cindy Roberts5 months ago
★★★★★

All of the staff are so very friendly. They always get to me on time….

Chad
Chad5 months ago
★★★★★

It was a great experience, they were very unstanding and very kind.

Vicki Sommers
Vicki Sommers5 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and efficient, best dentist I've ever had. Due to exposed roots teeth are…

Debbie Altenburg
Debbie Altenburg5 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly Staff and the dentist is the best dentist I’ve ever been to 😊

Anthony Brzozowski
Anthony Brzozowski2 months ago
★★★★★

Had a crown done today, always professional and painless work done by the dentist here…

Anna Gallegos-Hunt
Anna Gallegos-Hunt3 months ago
★★★★★

Dr Nguyen is a very knowledgeable and caring person..he explains options and the why of…

Debra Olsen
Debra Olsen2 months ago
★★★★★

For the first time in my life I am not afraid to go to the…

Emilie Eppensteiner
Emilie Eppensteiner2 months ago
★★★★

I chatted with hygienist and dentist. Both were nice and knowledgeable. I had a filling…

Karen Galske
Karen Galske5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Lap Nguyen was the dentist I saw today, and I was very impressed. I…

Lynn Eberly
Lynn Eberly5 months ago
★★★★★

I had my bottom teeth removed. I had no bruising, swelling or any pain, just…

Lynn Anderson
Lynn Anderson6 months ago
★★★★★

I highly recommend Crystal River Dental. Everyone there is professional and kind. I have been…

desiree lucena
desiree lucena2 months ago
★★★★★

A perfect place with super-professional people who provide excellent service. I was extremely satisfied with…

Alyssa Schauer
Alyssa Schauer4 months ago
★★★★

Dr. B was thorough and I am glad that my son had his chipped tooth…

All-Time Greatest Music
All-Time Greatest Music3 months ago
★★★★★

The young lady that cleaned my teeth was very thorough and had a very pleasant…

doc finn
doc finn2 months ago
★★★★★

I'm very pleased with the service and the professionalism at Crystal River dental. I felt…

Barbara
Barbara5 months ago
★★★★★

I always feel very cared about. 😊 I am cared about as a person compassionately…

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Tami French5 months ago
★★★★★

First experience went awesome & I look forward to my future visits! I broke my…

Deb Ostrander
Deb Ostrander5 months ago
★★★★★

Jan, their dental hygienist did a fabulous job cleaning my teeth. Very knowledgeable and thorough.

Cara Frias
Cara Frias6 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly, professional, took the time to answer my questions.

Marilyn Lange
Marilyn Lange6 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and staff are great. I'm very happy with the excellent care and the…

Becca Lewis-Clifton
Becca Lewis-Clifton1 month ago
★★★★★

After starting in 2022, at CRD, I was happy the practice finally settled down with…

Mary Robinson
Mary Robinson5 months ago
★★★★★

Great dentist and coworkers!

Kathy Baker
Kathy Baker6 months ago
★★★★★

Hygienist, Angela, very thorough, does an excellent job explaining teeth and toothbrush issues. Reminding me…

Jan Niemuth
Jan Niemuth3 weeks ago
★★★★★

Routine 6 mo cleaning and exam today. Punctuality is appreciated. Comfortable, painless procedures done in…

Jeanine Kes Bode
Jeanine Kes Bode6 months ago
★★★★★

Always on time. Always very friendly.

LRSchuelke
LRSchuelke1 month ago
★★★★★

Dentist, associates, & all office staff are absolutely awesome. They don’t treat their patients as…

Timothy Lemerand
Timothy Lemerand5 months ago
★★★★★

CRD stands behind its work and products Rarely do you see a company that has…

bonnie banaszak
bonnie banaszak2 months ago
★★★★★

Thank you for getting me in today you made my day.

Gator G
Gator G4 months ago
★★★★★

Great and helpful always listens to my concerns

Del Volpel
Del Volpel6 months ago
★★★★★

Outstanding care. Professional and compassionate.

Heather Krueger
Heather Krueger4 months ago
★★★★★

They were very nice and took care of me right from the start

Nate Kahler
Nate Kahler2 months ago
★★★★★

First visit to Crystal River Dental. The staff was very accommodating and helpful.

b c (BC)
b c (BC)1 month ago
★★★★★

Very through and honest dentist. Sugested but did not try 2 push expensive improvements.

Randy Thern
Randy Thern1 month ago
★★★★★

The cleaning was done in a relatively painless way. The exam was thorough and I…

Steve and Linda
Steve and Linda5 months ago
★★★★★

They have always done a great job with my regular teeth cleaning. got same day…

Patricia steinbarth
Patricia steinbarth3 months ago
★★★★★

Very competent and friendly people. Angela did a great job cleaning my teeth.

Mark Forseth
Mark Forseth6 months ago
★★★★★

Excellent care in a friendly and professional manner.

Joel Altenburg
Joel Altenburg6 months ago
★★★★★

I found a diamond of a dentist office in Waupaca, WI . From the reception…

Jesus isLord
Jesus isLord3 months ago
★★★★★

The dentist is very cordial and respectful. I appreciate the care she gives.

Pauline Suhs
Pauline Suhs5 months ago
★★★★★

Very kind and efficient. Friendly staff.

Beth Ann Zellmer
Beth Ann Zellmer2 months ago
★★★★★

Today, I had a cleaning of my teeth at Crystal Dental. The service I received…

Kevin Killeen
Kevin Killeen6 months ago
★★★★★

Great care, friendly staff. Hard to find a dentist this good and caring but this…

Stephen L Manske
Stephen L Manske4 months ago
★★★★★

I've been really impressed with the service and the quality of work. This visit provides…

Dennis Marten
Dennis Marten4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Very nice, I was totally comfortable. Thanks.

Julie Johannes
Julie Johannes4 months ago
★★★★★

Met Hygienist Angela today for the first time. She was extremely thoughtful, thorough and educational….

MJB
MJB2 months ago
★★★★★

Good experience! Dr.Saad, assistant Lisa, and hygienist Angela have all been very professional and helpful….

Marlene Germundson
Marlene Germundson5 months ago
★★★★★

The assistants and the doctor are very nice and explains things very well.

Patrick Kelly
Patrick Kelly5 months ago
★★★★★

They are very friendly an efficient

Joyce Greenholdt
Joyce Greenholdt5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and all the staff have been friendly, helpful, very skilled, and very good…

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Sharrey Kalbus3 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and friendly.

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Mark wheaton5 months ago
★★★★★

Great attention to detail.

Judith Gudex
Judith Gudex5 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience at Crystal River Dental. My Hygienist, Angela did an outstanding job and I…

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Dave N4 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and great service

Stacy
Stacy3 months ago
★★★★★

All employees are very nice and listen to ymy issues and explain what needs to…

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Brittany Durrant3 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Made me feel very comfortable and wanted to make sure I was okay…

Edward McCardell
Edward McCardell6 months ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental does a fantastic job. Hygienist Angela is very thorough and takes the…

Gary Prochnow
Gary Prochnow3 months ago
★★★★★

I had work done in both Waupaca and Wausau locations over the past year. Doctors…

Josh Jahnke
Josh Jahnke6 months ago
★★★★★

Doc was great. Got one tooth pulled didn't feel a thing. Doc was very informative…

Timothy Hein
Timothy Hein3 weeks ago
★★★★★

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Debby Dear
Debby Dear3 months ago
★★★★★

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Aaron Mueller2 months ago
★★★★★

Very pleased! As an itinerant substitute dentist she did a fantastic and thorough job.

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Christal Berg6 months ago
★★★★★

I feel very comfortable there

Lisa Kasner
Lisa Kasner6 months ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental is a very professional and caring establishment. The atmosphere is relaxing. I…

Gwynn Schroeder
Gwynn Schroeder4 weeks ago
★★★★★

The appointment was right on time. My cleaning was great without discomfort. Dr. did a…

Dale Hazard
Dale Hazard6 months ago
★★★★★

Even being late everyone was pleasant

Russell Delgado
Russell Delgado6 months ago
★★★★★

A very good dentist and very nice and friendly

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Ben Schroeder6 months ago
★★★★★

Great customer service and friendly staff! Outstanding dentist!

Paul Hanneman
Paul Hanneman4 weeks ago
★★★★★

I appreciate their honest work and explanation of what is going on when I get…

Mary Lindenmeyer
Mary Lindenmeyer4 weeks ago
★★★★★

You really care about your clients!!! More than the one I had after40 plus years…

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Brenda Sedlar4 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone there is friendly. The office is spotless and the hygenists are very thorough. Office…

Tonette Decker
Tonette Decker5 months ago
★★★★★

I like Dr. Nyugen my dentist here at Dental Crystal River – Waupaca very professional…

Heather Meyer
Heather Meyer4 months ago
★★★★★

This dentist made me feel BEYOND comfortable! I have never had a dentist so forward,…

Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)
Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)3 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing from when you first walk in the door until you leave. Everyone treats you…

John Charleston
John Charleston5 months ago
★★★★★

Professional and sensitive to patients needs.

Kay Konen
Kay Konen2 months ago
★★★★★

Hygienist was great,and Dr.'s explanation of teeth matters explained throughly.

Jim Tomasko
Jim Tomasko5 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone is very polite and helpful. I had to make a last minute appointment because…

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson6 months ago
★★★★★

Very happy with the crown Color was perfect and so was the fit.Thank you!

dirk williams
dirk williams4 weeks ago
★★★★★

I had my first visit. I had to miss my first appointment….The staff was very…

Cindy Cate
Cindy Cate2 months ago
★★★★★

I thought she is very kind and gentle! Gave me good advice for future care!

Christopher Gudex
Christopher Gudex2 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and thorough.

Michael Messing
Michael Messing4 weeks ago
★★★★★

The new dentist was very friendly and good and the hygienist was great.

Sherry Werner
Sherry Werner3 months ago
★★★★★

She was awesome. She was concerned and listened to me

Sherry Nushart
Sherry Nushart6 months ago
★★★★★

My Hygienist, Angela, was very friendly and thorough. She has nice conversation and lets me…

Kathy Wagner
Kathy Wagner4 months ago
★★★★★

Everything they did was pain free. Thank you

Darrell Bartel
Darrell Bartel3 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing Dental Care. From the Receptionist, throughout the whole process, Everyone makes you feel special….

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson4 months ago
★★★★★

I had a wonderful experience. The dental hygienist was very nice and was also encouraging…

martine mancini
martine mancini4 months ago
★★★★★

Service was on time and very friendly.

Bpontzloff Bigboyss
Bpontzloff Bigboyss3 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and professional staff.They are honest and do a great job.

Linda Mueller
Linda Mueller6 months ago
★★★★★

Every time I’m here the entire staff is friendly, helpful, kind and on top of…

Avilomah Ridge
Avilomah Ridge6 months ago
★★★★★

I had dental phobia, but everyone here is so kind, patient and understanding. Dentist does…

Janet Kitzrow
Janet Kitzrow5 months ago
★★★★★

I had an exam with Dr Nguyen, that was very thorough. I appreciate his comprehensive…

Cindy Buenning
Cindy Buenning5 months ago
★★★★★

As a first time patient, I was very happy with the hygienist and the dentist.

Tracy Karabelas
Tracy Karabelas1 month ago
★★★★★

Love this place & the Dentist! They are efficient, friendly and realistic! They work with…

Dorene Knolle
Dorene Knolle2 months ago
★★★★★

Every was nice and helpful.

Lois Richter
Lois Richter4 weeks ago
★★★★★

The staff at Crystal River Dental is very professional, friendly & efficient. I am so…

Cliff
Cliff5 months ago
★★★★★

Glad to be here: good listeners, good attention to detail, and hospitable. All make you…

Linda Hughes
Linda Hughes6 months ago
★★★★★

The receptionists, the hygienist, Nicole and Dr. Nguyen were all very communicative, professional, efficient and…

Chuck Wieland
Chuck Wieland1 month ago
★★★★★

Tina was excellent in what she was doing with my teeth. Was able to get…

David Golke
David Golke4 months ago
★★★★★

I've been with crystal river for about a year now and they have been nothing…

Linda Kubczak
Linda Kubczak3 months ago
★★★★★

Very sad to see Doctor Lap Nguyen had left sure enjoyed going to have him…

Denny Schroeder
Denny Schroeder5 months ago
★★★★★

Always a pleasant experience Thank you

Karin Nieubuurt
Karin Nieubuurt6 months ago
★★★★★

Staff is always upbeat and friendly.

Christine Galyardt
Christine Galyardt4 months ago
★★★★★

Love the dentist! They are very caring and efficient.

Bonita Erdmann
Bonita Erdmann4 months ago
★★★★★

I was very pleased with the staff and Dr. Matte. Thank you.

Frequently Asked Pediatric Restorative Questions
No — pulp capping is only appropriate when the tooth nerve is confirmed healthy and vital. If symptoms indicate irreversible pulpitis, or if a root end shadow shows on X-rays, a root canal is the necessary standard of care. Attempting to pulp cap an already infected or dying nerve leads to failure and unnecessary pain.
 
Most standard filling and crown procedures require local anesthesia to secure absolute comfort. We always apply a sweet topical numbing gel beforehand so the numbing injection is barely felt. For minor surface stains or very young children, non-invasive Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) can treat the cavity with zero anesthesia required.
 
A stainless steel crown is a pre-formed metal cap placed over a primary molar that has suffered extensive decay or structure loss. When too much enamel is missing, a standard composite filling lacks the structural support to hold up under chewing forces and can fail repeatedly. The metal crown provides full-coverage durability until the baby tooth falls out naturally.
 
We advocate for twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily as soon as teeth touch, and limiting highly sugary drinks and sticky snacks. Consistent 6-month exams and professional cleanings allow us to catch decay early when it is smallest, while proactive treatments like dental sealants block bacteria from back molars entirely.
Related services

Scaling & root planing

Deep cleaning — often the first treatment step before laser therapy is considered.

Osseous surgery

Traditional surgical option for very advanced cases where laser therapy is insufficient.

Periodontal maintenance

3–4 month maintenance required after laser treatment to sustain outcomes.

Open for Appointments

Schedule your visit with our friendly dental team today.