If your child’s tooth has been damaged by decay or injury, your dentist may recommend a crown as part of their treatment plan. A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed on top of the tooth to help support and protect it. Let’s explore more about crowns and how they can benefit your child’s smile.
What is a crown made of?
For baby teeth, a stainless steel crown is often used. It is made of iron, chromium, nickel and other metals, making it durable and resistant to bacteria. Stainless steel crowns can withstand biting forces and rarely need replacement. However, if appearance is a concern, some of our locations offer the option of a ceramic crown, they are the same color as natural teeth.
What are the benefits of crowns?
When decay is too severe for a regular filling, a crown helps repair the damage and keep it from getting worse. It acts like a protective shield, not only for the affected tooth but also for the teeth around it by resisting bacteria that try to attack. This is especially important for children at high risk of dental decay. A crown also supports a tooth that is susceptible to breaking, such as one that has undergone a root canal or been injured. It can also restore a tooth that is already broken.
Since baby teeth fall out anyway, can’t we just pull the tooth instead?
Although baby teeth do fall out eventually, taking good care of them while they’re still here is essential for the healthy growth and development of your child’s permanent teeth. A baby tooth usually stays in your child’s mouth until a permanent tooth underneath pushes it out and takes its place. If a tooth is pulled too early, the remaining teeth may shift, causing permanent teeth to come in crooked or crowded, leading to future problems. A dental crown will help protect the baby tooth until it is ready to come out on its own.
What can I expect from treatment?
Immediately after crown treatment, your child may still be numb. Once the numbness has worn off, they may feel some mild discomfort that can be alleviated with an over-the-counter children’s pain reliever. For the next several days after that, your child may experience some mild bleeding along the gumline and may benefit from your help with brushing and flossing. Sticky gums and candies, as well as ice crunching, should be avoided to prevent the crown from coming loose. However, if it does come loose, please call us as soon as possible.
A dental crown is an effective way to restore the function and appearance of your child’s damaged teeth. If your child has been recommended for a dental crown, talk with our team about any questions or concerns you may have. We are here to support you!
