It’s possible that your child would benefit from a dental crown. Dental crowns are coverings that are cemented on top of the tooth to help restore the tooth to its original shape. When a cavity is small, a children's dentist can use a traditional filling to fix the tooth. But if the decay is extensive, crowns are used because the tooth could possibly break during a filling.
Some parents might wonder why a children's dentist would not just pull a child’s decayed baby tooth. If there is a missing baby tooth long before the permanent tooth comes in, it’s very likely that nearby teeth will move into the empty space and cause crowding and misalignment. A dental crown allows the baby tooth to stay as a placeholder until the permanent tooth arrives.
Dental crowns can also help prevent the spread of decay and infection. Baby teeth are thinner than permanent teeth, so decay can spread fast and easily between teeth. There are different types of crowns.
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Stainless steel crowns are the most common type used in children's dentistry for molars. These crowns are affordable and durable. Crowns have a surface level called a “facing.” Stainless steel crowns with a pre-veneered white facing can be used if the crown is placed on a front tooth.
Composite strip crowns (resin) are also a popular choice because the composite filling material looks very natural. A shade guide is used by the dentist to match the crown’s color to the child’s tooth.
No matter which crown is chosen, the child is given a painkiller during the crown fitting process. Children may feel some discomfort after the procedure, which can be handled with over-the-counter pain medicine.
If your child needs a crown or other dental care, please call our office to schedule a visit with the dentist who will examine your child’s teeth and explain the treatment options. Call us today!
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When a cavity is large or the tooth is weakened, a filling may not provide enough support. A crown covers the entire tooth, distributing bite forces evenly and protecting the remaining structure from further fracture or decay. Crowns also provide a longer-lasting solution for heavily damaged teeth.
The area is thoroughly numbed before any work begins, so your child should not feel pain during the procedure. We also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help anxious children relax. After the procedure, mild soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Stainless steel crowns are very durable and typically last until the baby tooth falls out naturally, which may be several years. They are designed to withstand the normal wear and tear of a child's bite. Regular check-ups ensure the crown remains in good condition.
Yes, stainless steel crowns are safe and have been used in Children's Dentistry for decades. They are BPA-free and highly biocompatible. They are the most reliable option for back teeth due to their strength and longevity, and are recommended by the American Academy of Children's Dentistry.
