When your child’s dentist recommends a dental crown, you might have questions about what this means for your little one. At Glen Ellyn kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we want to help you understand why dental crowns play an important role in protecting your child’s smile and oral health.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown works like a protective cap that covers a damaged tooth. Think of it as a strong helmet that shields and strengthens a tooth that has been weakened by decay or injury. When we place a tooth crown in our dental office, it helps restore your child’s ability to eat comfortably and smile confidently.
Why Your Child Might Need a Dental Crown
Crowns help restore strength and function to teeth that are severely damaged. Your child’s dentist might recommend a crown if:
- Your child has a tooth with significant decay that’s too large for a regular filling to repair. A crown provides complete protection and prevents further damage to the affected tooth.
- A tooth was injured or cracked due to an accident or during sports activities. Crowns help strengthen damaged teeth and prevent further injury. They also prevent bacteria from causing an infection.
- Your child has had a pulpotomy or root canal. A crown seals and safeguards the treated tooth, preventing future issues and reducing sensitivity.
- A tooth shows signs of significant wear or has developmental issues. Some children’s teeth may not form properly, and crowns can help restore their normal shape and function.
Types of Crowns for Children
We offer different types of dental crowns at our office, each meeting specific needs:
- White Ceramic Crowns: For front teeth where appearance matters most, we offer tooth-colored crowns that match your child’s natural smile. These crowns provide protection without standing out.
- Composite Resin Crowns: These versatile crowns offer a natural appearance and are ideal for young children. Made from tooth-colored materials, they provide reliable protection but are still less durable than ceramic crowns. Composite resin is usually more affordable and best used on baby teeth that need restorative treatment.
- Stainless Steel Crowns: These strong, durable crowns are suitable for restoring back teeth. While they’re silver in color, they provide excellent protection for baby teeth and typically last until the tooth falls out.
What To Expect During Crown Placement
Getting a dental crown is a straightforward process. When you come to Glen Ellyn kiDDS, our skilled and friendly staff make the experience as comfortable as possible for your child. Here’s what to expect:
- First, we make sure the patient feels relaxed and at ease in the dental chair. We explain each step in child-friendly terms and answer any questions they might have.
- Then, we carefully prepare the affected tooth. We start by administering local anesthesia to prevent discomfort. Next, we remove all decay and shape the tooth to fit the crown. Your child won’t feel any pain during this process.
- If your child has a broken tooth, we simply remove any fragments and clean the tooth thoroughly.
- Then, we place the crown and make sure it fits comfortably. We check your child’s bite to ensure the crown feels natural when they close their teeth together.
- The entire procedure usually takes just one visit, and your child can return to normal activities the same day.
Sometimes, a second appointment is necessary if a permanent crown needs to be made by a dental lab. At the second appointment, we’ll remove the temporary crown and place the custom one.
Caring for a Crowned Tooth
After getting a dental crown at our Glen Ellyn office, your child can care for it just like their natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing help keep the crowned tooth and surrounding gum tissue healthy. We’ll show both you and your child the best techniques for cleaning around the crown.
While crowns are strong, we recommend avoiding very sticky or hard foods that might damage or dislodge them. With proper care, your child’s restoration should last for many years to come.
The Long-Term Benefits of Crowns
A dental crown for your child offers several important benefits:
- Protection from further decay and damage
- Improved ability to eat and speak comfortably
- Prevention of dental problems in the future
- Better oral health
- Lowered risk of gum disease and infection
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you think your child might need a crown for a compromised tooth, or if you have questions about protecting your child’s smile, we’re here to help. Contact Glen Ellyn kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule a consultation. Our children’s dentist will evaluate your child’s dental needs and recommend the best treatment options.
Let us help protect your child’s smile with the caring, gentle approach we’re known for! We also offer traditional cavity treatment in the form of filings and professional advice on how to prevent tooth decay.
