Tooth decay is the most common dental condition in children. It can result from poor oral hygiene, a sugary diet, or genetic predisposition. While teaching good dental habits early on is essential, cavities can sometimes get so bad that a filling is insufficient. However, in such cases, a dental crown may be the best solution to restore your child’s tooth and protect it further from damage. A top-rated pediatric dentist Culver City can help assess your child’s needs and determine if a dental crown is the right treatment option.
Here are the reasons children may need dental crowns for decay.
- What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. They have been designed to fit over the existing tooth, creating a shield to prevent further deterioration of the decayed part. Crowns come in various materials made of stainless steel, porcelain, or a combination of both, and the choice for this depends on the patient’s needs. They are essential for children because they give permanent protection and help preserve the tooth’s original structure until the adult tooth grows out.
2. Why Do Children Need Dental Crowns?
Children’s teeth are more prone to decay because of their diet and the natural tendency to consume sugary snacks. When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged by trauma, a simple filling may not be enough to restore it. In such cases, a crown is necessary to reinforce the tooth and prevent further damage. Crowns also help protect the tooth from infection and reduce the risk of needing more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions in the future.
Children’s primary (baby) teeth play a significant role in proper speech development, chewing, and even the alignment of adult teeth. Maintaining these teeth for as long as possible is necessary for your child’s oral health and development. Crowns will preserve the integrity of a child’s smile and allow their teeth to stay healthy until they naturally fall out to make way for permanent adult teeth.
3. Dental Crowning for the Kids Procedure
Typically, a dental crown process for a kid takes up to two trips to a dental office because the severity of the problem usually determines at the first visit at what level will require the involvement of a specialist for further consideration on whether the crown installation is recommended for the condition in question and possibly even shaping up the damaged or decayed tooth portion with or without applying medications. The dentist usually will often take impressions of the tooth, ensuring the crown fits properly and comfortably.
Your child will visit the dentist after the crown is prepared and manufactured. At this appointment, the dentist places the crown on the tooth. The dentist tests for the appropriate fit and comfort in every dimension and permanently cementates the crown if everything fits together correctly.
It usually takes only a few minutes with minimal discomfort during the procedure due to local anesthesia administered before the process. Your child will likely have a slight ache after the process, which tends to clear out within days. The dentist usually gives specific post-procedure advice to keep the crown firmly in place while the tooth heals.
4. Different Types of Children’s Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available for children, and the right choice depends on various factors, such as the location of the tooth and your child’s age. Common options include:
Stainless Steel Crowns: These are commonly used for molars because of their strength and durability. They are cost-effective and provide long-term protection for primary teeth.
Porcelain Crowns: These are often used for front teeth since they can match the natural color of your child’s teeth. Although porcelain crowns are more aesthetically pleasing, they probably are not as durable as stainless steel in the back of the mouth.
Resin Crowns: Composite crowns are another option. These resin crowns look more natural. However, they are probably not as durable as stainless steel.
5. Benefits of Dental Crowns for Children
- Long-Lasting Protection: It covers your children’s teeth; there may be no need for more rotten and broken structures afterward.
- Functionality: Crowns restore the tooth to its proper functioning, allowing your child to chew and speak without a problem.
- Prevents Further Damage: Crowns avoid the need for more invasive treatments, such as root canals or extractions.
- Aesthetic Appeal: In the case of front teeth, porcelain dental crowns Culver City blend well with your child’s natural smile, making them look more attractive.
Conclusion
Dentally, crowning for children is one of the effective treatments for severe tooth decay and damage. It saves the tooth from further decay and protects the child’s oral cavity, keeping their primary teeth intact for some more time until they might fall out naturally. If your child has signs of tooth decay or damage, a pediatric dentist can evaluate if crowning is the required treatment. A dental crown can help your child’s smile for years with proper care and attention.
