Crowns for Kids Dental health is the key to overall health, especially for children. A vital treatment that preserves dental health for kids is the use of dental crowns. Dental crowns for kids, also referred to as pediatric crowns, play an essential role in maintaining the function, and form, of a child's teeth. Importance of Dental Crowns for KidsDental crowns are caps placed over damaged teeth to restore the tooth and preserve what remains of the natural tooth. Dental crowns are especially important for children due to several factors. Tooth DecayChildren are prone to cavities due to poor diet, and inadequate oral hygiene. Crowns help protect decayed teeth from further damage. Tooth DevelopmentPreserving baby teeth until they naturally fall out is crucial to creating proper spacing and alignment of permanent teeth. Crowns maintain the structure of the tooth, which ensures healthy dental development. Types of Dental Crowns for KidsThere are several types of dental crowns used in pediatric dentistry. Each crown has specific benefits and applications. Stainless Steel CrownsStainless steel crowns are the most common for children. They are durable, cost effective, and easy to place. These crowns are most often used on molars and not the front teeth because they can withstand bite forces, and because the appearance of stainless steel stands out. Composite Strip CrownsComposite strip crowns are made from a tooth-colored resin that matches the child's natural teeth. These crowns are ideal for front teeth because they blend into the natural teeth very effectively. Composite strip crowns are less durable than stainless steel crowns, but are the most common choice to repair the visible parts of a child's smile, because of their natural appearance. Zirconia CrownsZirconia crowns are durable, and they blend seamlessly with the natural teeth. Zirconia combines the benefits of stainless steel and composite crowns. These are more expensive than other crown options, but their combination of strength and natural appearance make them the preferred choice for many parents. Placing Dental Crowns ProcedureThe process of placing a dental crown on a child's tooth starts with diagnosis and planning. Our team examines the child's teeth to determine the extent of the damage, and the need for a crown. Next, we prepare the affected tooth by removing all decay and shaping it to fit the crown. Once the custom crown is made, we place it over the prepared tooth. Stainless steel crowns are pre-fabricated and can be placed in a single visit, but composite and zirconia crowns may require multiple visits for custom fitting. Lastly, the crown is adjusted for proper fit and bite alignment, then cemented in place. Tips for ParentsWell informed parents ensure the success of dental crown treatments for children, and their ongoing dental health. Encourage your child to brush and floss everyday to prevent plaque buildup around the crown. Limit sugar. Sweet snacks and drinks contribute to tooth decay. Schedule regular visits to the dentist to have professional cleanings, monitor the condition of the child's crown, and protect dental health overall. With some ongoing education and diligence, your child's smile will stay healthy for a lifetime. |
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