Why Do Children Need Dental Crowns?

Pediatric dentists often have to repair and restore a child’s teeth. This may be due to extensive damage from tooth decay and physical trauma among other things. They are also recommended for primary teeth that have failed to develop normally. In this article, we will discuss the practice of fixing dental crowns for kids.

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps or coverings. They are usually cemented to the tooth to restore aesthetics and integrity. We have mentioned two major reasons why your child might need dental crowns at Shasta kids dentistry. Normally, damage to these teeth has gone beyond the scope of repair by a filling. This is where the crowns come in. Moreover, a pediatric dentist near you will readily recommend dental crowns because they last longer than fillings on average. There are a host of other reasons why dental crowns are used.

Why Do Children Need Dental Crowns?

As we all know, children grow temporary teeth that will only fall out for permanent ones later. However, these primary teeth are prone to all kinds of assault that can perpetuate a lifetime of dental problems, if nothing is done. This is why a pediatric dentist in Redding, CA can recommend a crown for protection of the primary teeth.

The enamel of baby teeth is thinner than that of the permanent ones. Since the primary function of teeth enamel is to protect the teeth, a weaker enamel means more potential damage. This is why tooth decay spreads easily through baby teeth. This situation is not helped by the fact that little ones have a penchant for devouring candy. Crowns are used to protect the teeth in these cases. They can prevent further decay and spread to neighboring teeth.

Crowns play a huge role in the oral health and development of young ones. By restoring a tooth’s shape and size, they also ensure that it holds the spacing for the permanent teeth and guides it into position. This also extends to jawbone and muscle development. Of course, it also means that functions like chewing and speaking are also preserved.

What Type Of Crowns Are Used In Pediatric Dentistry?

Crowns are grouped into types based on the materials used to make them. For children, they include pre-formed stainless steel types, resin, veneered steel, and zirconia crowns. Each type has its peculiarities which makes it more useful in certain situations than others.

Stainless steel crowns are the most used type in pediatric dentistry. They are made of metal shells of different sizes depending on tooth size. They are perfect for the molars(teeth towards the back of the mouth) as they are durable, strong, and resistant to moisture. They are especially useful when tooth decay is involved and are easy to place. Generally, only one visit to the dentist is needed. They are also the most affordable crown of all types available.

Resin crowns are clear shells that are filled with tooth-colored composite making them look like a normal tooth. After the composite sets, the shells are removed. They are cosmetically acceptable and affordable too.

Veneered steel or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are a combination of stainless steel/nickel with a tooth-colored material bonded to the front, top, and sides. They are perfect for the anterior teeth, protective against moisture, and last long. However, they generally need more tooth reduction than other crown preparations. They can also cause an allergic reaction.

Zirconia crowns may be referred to as aesthetic white crowns. They are hard tooth-colored materials similar to ceramic. They are pre-made for various sizes, metal-free, and very strong. They’re stronger than natural tooth enamel. They’re also resistant to plaque accumulation and decay.

What Can You Expect During And After The Procedure?

Your child will receive the appropriate anesthesia for the procedure. Another precaution that will be taken is using dental dams which protect the child’s cheek, tongue, and gums.

After the procedure, some irritation is normal. Follow the dentist’s instructions and use drugs as prescribed. Do not hesitate to contact them if you have any concerns.

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