Dental crowns are tooth shaped coverings that are typically placed on severely decayed teeth or teeth that have fractured due to trauma. Crowns are cemented over the remaining tooth structure restoring the tooth to its original shape and function.
Zirconia crowns are particularly useful when children damage their teeth on the playground, in a sporting event or some direct trauma that chips or cracks a child’s tooth. Cosmetically, a child can be affected negatively if other children make fun of the way they smile. Also, a badly damaged tooth can lead to additional exposure to decay. So there is good reason to repair badly damaged teeth with pediatric dental crowns.
Pediatric Dental Crowns: The Process
More than likely, the dentist will need to shape the damaged or decayed tooth. This requires removing the decayed or damaged enamel and dentin until the tooth structure is small enough for the crown to fit comfortably on top. First, you need to decide what kind of material you want your child’s crown to be made out of. The most commonly used materials are stainless steel (silver appearance) or zirconia (white appearance).
Stainless steel crowns have been used for decades in pediatric dentistry and do a wonderful job of restoring function to your child’s teeth. The only complaint with stainless steel crowns are their poor esthetics.
In contrast to the poor esthetics of stainless steel, zironica crowns are great if you want to maintain the natural aesthetic of your kid’s smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry for Kids Explained
You will need to schedule two appointments for your child to see the dentist. The first visit involves the dentist taking X-rays to make sure the tooth is structurally sound to support a crown.
Depending on the behavior of the child and the amount of work needed; you and the dentist will decide on the best type of treatment for a child.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?
Crowns provide confidence to kids who would be self-conscious. They also improve speech patterns and prevent lisps or slurred speech. Crowns are also incredibly durable and most last until the time the tooth should exfoliate.
Pediatric dental crowns are a great form of cosmetic dentistry for kids. Crowns can enhance a smile while making it easier to chew and talk. Do not delay taking your youngster to our office when there is an emergency. Your child will be thankful you took an active approach to his or her dental health.
