Board-Certified
Pediatric Dentists
The Importance of Saving Damaged Baby Teeth with Dental Crowns
Why save a damaged baby tooth? While baby teeth do eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in a child's current and future oral health. If your child has a severely decayed or damaged primary tooth, our doctors may recommend repairing it with a dental crown.
Why Not Just Pull a Tooth Out?
Baby teeth are vital for proper chewing and speech development. They serve as natural space holders for permanent teeth, guiding them into position. Losing baby teeth too early can disrupt the eruption of permanent teeth, leading to shifting of adjacent teeth. This may result in crooked teeth, a crowded mouth, or bite issues, which could require orthodontic treatment later on.
Does Your Child Need a Dental Crown?
A crown is a restoration that fully encases an affected tooth, providing protection against future decay or damage. Our doctors may recommend a crown if your child needs nerve treatment (pulpotomy), has experienced trauma resulting in a cracked or fractured tooth, or if a tooth is malformed or has significant decay that can't be addressed with a simple filling.
At Rocky Mountain Kids Dentistry, we primarily use two types of crowns: stainless steel and zirconia. Our team will work with you to determine the best option for your child's needs.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Our doctors will likely recommend a stainless steel crown to protect your child's primary tooth until the permanent tooth is ready to emerge. These crowns are prefabricated in various shapes and sizes, eliminating the need for molds or impressions. Stainless steel crowns are cost-effective and can be placed in a single visit, making the process efficient and convenient.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are ideal for teeth affected by decay or trauma, as they provide a more aesthetically pleasing option. These white restorations are more expensive and may not be suitable for all teeth.
How Are Dental Crowns Prepared?
The procedure begins with numbing the area using a local anesthetic. Our doctors will remove any decay and prepare the affected tooth for the crown. For both crown types, we will place a crown that fits your child's tooth perfectly for same-day delivery.
How to Avoid Needing Crowns on Baby Teeth
You can help your child avoid the need for dental crowns by promoting healthy teeth through good dental habits. Encourage daily brushing and flossing, and ensure they have a dental exam and cleaning every six months.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pediatric dental crown is a protective cap placed over a damaged or weakened baby tooth. It covers the entire tooth to restore its strength, shape, and function while protecting it from further decay or damage.
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