Kids dental crowns, also called baby dental crowns, are ideal for restoring the health, appearance, and functionality of a damaged tooth. Parents often have a series of questions concerning kids dental crowns treatment, and in this review, we answer the most frequently asked ones.
Things that parents should know about kids dental crowns
Here is everything that parents should know about kids dental crowns, including what they are, the different types, and when they are recommended.
What are kids dental crowns?
A kids' dental crown is a dental restoration that entirely covers a damaged, weekend, or decayed tooth. This prevents further damage to the tooth and helps alleviate any discomfort that the child may experience. Dental crowns are fixed, non-removal restorations that are placed in the pediatric dentist’s office. The procedure is relatively non-invasive and does not require a long recovery period.
What are the different types of dental crowns?
There are a range of dental crown types. The recommended option depends on the location of the tooth and the patient's treatment preference. The four primary types of dental crowns for kids are:
- Tooth-colored (ceramic) crowns
- Metal-alloy crowns
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns
- Gold crowns
Tooth-colored crowns are typically recommended or more visible teeth, as these are made of a ceramic material. Metal-alloy crowns (or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns) are typically recommended for molars that are less visible.
When are dental crowns recommended for kids?
Dental crowns for kids may be recommended for a multitude of purposes. Keep in mind that the purpose of dental crowns is to protect a tooth that is weak, damaged, or vulnerable in another way. Specifically, dental crowns may be recommended if the child shows signs of one or more of the following:
- Chips and cracks
- Severe dental decay
- Tooth infection
- Loose tooth
Dental crowns are often necessary after a baby root canal procedure or as an alternative to a traditional dental filling. They can also repair most chips and cracks, which helps restore the tooth's appearance, protects the child's oral health, and reduces the risk of oral discomfort or sensitivity.
Do kids need dental crowns for primary teeth?
Dental crowns are essential for maintaining the proper oral development of the child. Otherwise, the child’s tooth (or teeth) may fall out prematurely. Although it is true that primary teeth are destined to fall out anyway, the early loss of baby teeth may lead to the improper development of the permanent teeth. Additionally, a child with a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth may experience discomfort until they receive proper treatment.
What is the process of placing a dental crown?
A dental crown can be placed in the dentist's office in as few as two visits. The first visit allows the dentist to examine the severity of the child's damaged tooth. If a kids' dental crown is deemed necessary, the dentist will take an impression of the child's tooth (or teeth), a temporary crown is placed. The impression is then sent to the lab, where the custom dental crown is created in the appropriate material and sent back to the dentist. Once it arrives at the office, the child returns to have the permanent crown placed.
How can I help my child prevent the need for a dental crown in the future?
Parents' long-term focus should be on the prevention of oral health concerns to reduce the need for their child to get a dental crown (or another type of dental restoration). This can be achieved by the child having a good oral hygiene routine, which primarily takes place at home. This includes brushing and flossing several times a day.
Children can also reduce the risk of cavities by limiting their consumption of sugar and other carbs. They can reduce the risk of issues like chips and cracks by wearing a mouthguard during sporting events and at other appropriate times. It is also necessary to visit the dentist for regular cleaning visits every four to six months, as this helps identify any oral health concerns early.
Our pediatric dentistry offers dental crowns for kids
Our dental practice offers dental crown treatment for children who have one or more damaged teeth. If your child is due for a check-up visit and/or has signs of an oral health concern, contact us today. We can answer your questions and schedule a convenient time for you to visit us for a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
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