A pediatric dentist uses kid's dental crowns to save baby teeth damaged by decay or trauma. Though baby teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by adult teeth, they still play a crucial role in a child's future oral health. This is just one important reason pediatric dentists recommend dental crowns.
Baby teeth are more than just placeholders for adult teeth. These teeth are essential for children to chew their food and get the necessary nutrients. In addition, losing teeth too soon can affect a child as they learn to speak, causing problems for their self-esteem. Also, losing baby teeth too early can affect the proper eruption of the primary teeth. If primary teeth are allowed to decay, they can affect the child's future dental and gum health.
Saving children's primary teeth is crucial and cannot always be done with a filling. Sometimes, a dental crown, a tooth-shaped cap, is needed to reinforce and protect the tooth. Children can be more susceptible to the types of tooth decay and trauma that necessitate a dental crown.
When a cavity progresses too far and affects the pulp of the tooth, the pulp typically must be removed, devitalizing the tooth. The kid's dental crown then reinforces the tooth. Kid's dental crowns may also help save a child's cracked or broken tooth. In both cases, the dental crown restores the tooth's function and protects it from future decay or damage until it is time for the baby tooth to fall out naturally.
These tooth-shaped caps that protect decayed or damaged teeth come in several forms. A pediatric dentist can help a parent decide which material will fit their child's needs. A kid's dental crown options include:
A pediatric dentist will likely recommend stainless steel crowns for molars or premolars. These crowns are a popular choice for kids due to their durability. They are especially ideal for the molars that need to sustain extra biting force.
Parents may consider tooth-colored composite crowns for teeth toward the front of the child's mouth. These are also an option for children with metal allergies. Though not as durable as other materials, they look like natural teeth and may be a better fit for self-conscious children.
Zirconia, porcelain, and other materials may be available. These materials can offer a combination of durability and cosmetic appeal. Better yet, tooth-colored material over metal may offer durability and cosmetic appeal at a lower cost.
A pediatric dentist can make recommendations based on the tooth's location and the child's preferences and lifestyle.
After getting a dental crown, parents must ensure their kids practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing at least once. The pediatric dentist can instruct the child on how to properly clean the dental crown. In addition, they can provide parents with helpful tips for assisting their child at home.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Kid’s Dental Crowns in Fullerton, CA
Kid's dental crowns can protect primary teeth until it is time for them to fall out naturally. As pediatric dentists, we recommend these crowns for teeth severely damaged by decay or trauma. To learn more about kid's dental crowns, call our office today.
Request an appointment or call Fullerton Orthodontics & Children's Dentistry at 714-459-8060 for an appointment in our Fullerton office.
Considering kid's dental crowns for your child? Read on to learn more about this restoration option. Preventive measures are usually preferable when it comes to protecting children's dental health. As parents, your best efforts may not always be enough to prevent the need for restorations like kid’s dental crowns.The following are some frequently asked questions…
If you want to protect your children's oral health, then one of the most important things you can do is make sure they get a dental checkup for kids on a routine basis. The dental checkup may not seem like a big deal, especially to us adults, but to a developing child, it can mean…
Choosing a dentist for children is often an overlooked task. However, a child's dental experience sets the foundation for long-term oral health. This makes choosing a kid-friendly dentist all the more important, as they will work to foster positivity between young patients and the dental office.A kid-friendly dentist must undergo specialized training and education in…