Kids dental crowns are restorations used to prevent baby teeth from falling out before they are supposed to. Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth, ensuring proper dental development and jaw alignment. While some parents may wonder why a pediatric dentist would not simply pull damaged teeth, kids' dental crowns protect affected baby teeth from further damage until the permanent teeth come in.
A kids dental crown is a small cap that is placed over a baby tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance and prevent further damage and complications. The crown is attached to the top of the tooth. When the tooth eventually falls out, the crown and the entire tooth will come out together.
Crowns are commonly made from stainless steel, porcelain, resin, or ceramic. Pediatric dentists often recommend stainless steel crowns due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. However, each type of crown has pros and cons, so its placement, allergies, and aesthetics typically determine the type recommended for kids' dental crowns.
Several situations may require the use of a kids' dental crown. These situations may include:
A kids' dental crown might be necessary if a child's tooth is extensively decayed and a filling is not enough to repair it. Severe decay can weaken a tooth, making it prone to fractures and infection. A crown provides a strong cover, protecting the tooth from further damage and decay.
Children are prone to accidents and injuries, whether they play a contact sport or experience facial trauma. If a child has a broken or fractured tooth, a kid's dental crown can help restore the baby tooth's function and appearance. It is crucial to address these issues promptly to avoid complications, such as teeth misalignment and infection.
If a child undergoes a baby root canal, also known as a pulpotomy, the tooth might become fragile or brittle. A kid's dental crown can protect the treated tooth and ensure it remains healthy and functional. Although baby root canals are less common in children, they are sometimes necessary to preserve the primary tooth until it naturally falls out.
Some children are born with congenital dental abnormalities that affect the structure and strength of their teeth, making them more susceptible to damage and decay. These anomalies may include weak enamel or irregular tooth shape. In these cases, crowns can enhance the tooth's appearance and function, allowing the child to chew properly and maintain a healthy smile.
Kids dental crowns offer several benefits for restoring and protecting damaged baby teeth. These advantages include the following:
Understanding the process of getting a kid's dental crown can help alleviate any anxiety the parent or their child might have about the procedure. During the initial examination, the pediatric dentist will first examine the child's tooth to determine the extent of the damage or decay. They may take X-rays to get a clearer picture of the condition of the tooth and the surrounding bone tissue.
If the tooth is severely decayed, the dentist will remove the decayed portion and clean the affected area. If the child needs a pulpotomy, the dentist will will perform it at this stage in the process. They can then shape the tooth so the crown will fit it properly.
If a stainless steel crown is used, it is often pre-made and can be placed in a single visit. For other types of crowns, the dentist will take an impression or mold of the child's tooth to fabricate the custom crown in an off-site dental lab. While the permanent crown is being made, the dentist will likely place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it.
Once the permanent crown is ready, it will be cemented in place, ensuring a secure fit for everyday function. The dentist will provide parents with instructions on how to care for their child's new crown at home, such as oral hygiene habits and dietary restrictions. Additionally, regular check-ups allow the dentist to monitor the crown and address any potential issues in their early stages.
A kid's dental crown is an effective solution for restoring and protecting damaged teeth in children. Do you have further questions or concerns about the process? Call our Middletown office to learn more or to schedule 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.
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