While commonly associated with adults, dental crowns play a significant role in pediatric dentistry, so here, we explain the various aspects of kids dental crowns, including their purpose, recommendations, types, and placement process.
Kids dental crowns can help parents protect their child's oral health and development. Here is everything that parents should know about when kids dental crowns are recommended and how they are beneficial for a child's oral health.
Kids dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are protective coverings placed over primary or permanent teeth to protect them from further harm. They are designed to restore the shape, size, and strength of a tooth that might have been damaged by tooth decay or dental trauma. For children in particular, dental crowns serve a unique purpose because they address dental issues that can impact their overall oral health and development.
Pediatric dentists recommend kids dental crowns if the child has severely decayed or damaged teeth. Minor cavities are often treated with dental fillings, but moderate to severe cavities typically require something stronger to help ensure that the child does not experience discomfort and to protect the tooth for the long term. In cases of dental trauma, dental crowns are effective at restoring teeth that are chipped or cracked. Kids dental crowns may also be recommended for:
Each type of kids dental crown has unique advantages. Specifically, there are four primary types of dental crowns for kids. These include:
The longevity of a kids dental crown depends on various factors, including the type of crown and the child's oral hygiene practices. For example, metal alloy crowns tend to last longer than tooth-colored crowns (i.e., porcelain crowns). Children should also be careful to avoid dental trauma because it could damage the crown and lead to the need for replacement.
On average, dental crowns for children can last anywhere from five to 10 years. In some cases, they last for 15 years or more. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene significantly contribute to the lifespan of a kids dental crown.
A kids dental crown from a pediatric dentist is essential to avoid unnecessary discomfort and severe oral health concerns. Dental cavities, chips, and cracks expose the underlying layers of teeth. Consequently, children who do not receive the proper treatment may experience pain and discomfort that affects their ability to eat, speak, and focus throughout the day.
Simply extracting the tooth is not always an option either. Baby teeth that are removed earlier than necessary may contribute to orthodontic concerns. Additionally, tooth decay may worsen and lead to tooth infections that can spread to other areas of the mouth and body.
Alternatives are examined on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, there are no viable alternatives to a dental crown for children. In other instances, several may be preferable. The most notable possible alternatives to kids dental crowns are:
If your child has oral health concerns that may require a kids dental crown, we would love to hear from you. We provide pediatric dental services (including pediatric crowns), along with preventive and diagnostic services. Contact us today to schedule a time for you and your child to visit us.
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 dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Middletown, NY.
Pediatric dentistry is a field that deals specifically with the care of infants, children’s, and teenagers' teeth. More often than not, children experience a need for stainless-steel dental crowns. These crowns are most commonly used in pediatric dentistry due to their durability. When a child has badly decayed teeth, they should be seen by a…
The idea of a baby dental crown may spark fear in parents. However, rest assured that the procedure is straightforward and efficient. Modern-day dentistry has evolved quite a bit, and the dental specialist or pediatric dentist that performs this procedure undergoes extensive training to ensure perfection during and after the procedure is complete.When parents are…
If your dentist has recommended a baby dental crown for your child, you probably have questions about the procedure. A dental crown helps protect your child’s primary tooth from further damage and is often suggested when a tooth cannot be repaired with a dental filling. Here are frequently asked questions about baby dental crowns.A dental…
Dental crowns for kids might be recommended if your child has a severely damaged or decayed tooth. Tooth decay is the most common dental issue that affects children due to a myriad of factors like children having less developed brushing skills and an affinity for sweet things. The bacteria that produce the acids that lead…
A firm understanding of oral hygiene basics can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and general oral discomfort. Kids develop a range of habits that impact oral health, some of which are good and some of which can be damaging. Avoiding these damaging behaviors helps promote strong teeth and gums that can last a lifetime.Being proactive…
Helping your child practice oral hygiene basics is essential for tooth health, comfort, and overall well-being. Their teeth play a crucial role in their smile and help break down food while they eat. This article will explore how, as a parent, you can help your child maintain excellent oral hygiene and establish healthy habits they…