Dental Crowns for Baby teeth in Christiansburg, VA
Protecting your child's smile with crowns for baby teeth
New River Valley Pediatric Dentistry understands that the oral health of your child is a priority. Baby teeth are crucial to your child's growth, as they affect their ability for them to speak, chew and maintain space in the mouth for permanent teeth. Dental crowns are a great solution for restoring the strength and function of baby teeth that have been damaged or badly decayed.
What are dental crowns for baby teeth?
Dentures crowns are tooth shaped caps that cover a tooth damaged by decay or damage. They restore the tooth's structure and function. Crowns provide long-lasting protection, unlike fillings that only repair a small portion of the teeth. Crowns are used in pediatric dentistry when there is extensive decay on a tooth, after a fracture or following a pulpotomy.
Why Your Child Might Need a Crown
There are several situations that may require a dental crown to be placed on a baby teeth:
- Severe tooth decay- When the cavity is too big for a filling.
- Broken or Fractured Teeth- Crowns restore function to teeth damaged by trauma.
- Pulpotomy If the decay has reached the nerve, it may be necessary to perform a pulpotomy and place a crown on the tooth.
- Enamel defects Some children are born with weak enamel. This makes them more susceptible to tooth damage.
Pediatric Dental Crowns: Types and Applications
There are several types of crowns for baby teeth depending on their location and aesthetic concerns.
Crowns in Stainless Steel
- Long-Lasting and Durable- These crowns can withstand chewing force.
- Cost Effective – A great option for molars which are not as visible.
- Commonly used- Often recommended for back teeth when durability is important.
Tooth-Colored Crowns
- Aesthetic Appearance – Blends in with natural teeth. Ideal for front teeth restoration.
- Metal Free Option -- Some parents prefer zirconia for their child's teeth.
- Strong, Stain Resistant- Offers durability and a natural appearance.
What to expect during the procedure
New River Valley Pediatric Dentistry offers a simple and painless process for getting a crown on a baby's tooth.
- Exam & X-Rays- The dentist will examine the tooth and determine if it needs a crown.
- Local Anesthesia: This is a local anesthesia that is used to make your child comfortable.
- Preparation of the Tooth- The decayed part is removed and the tooth is shaped so that it fits the crown.
- Crown Placement- Select the appropriate crown and cement it onto the tooth.
- Final adjustments- The dentist will ensure that the crown is comfortable for optimal function.
Dental crowns for baby teeth: Benefits and advantages
- Protects Against Further Damage and Decay – Protects against further decay or infection.
- Proper tooth alignment – Helps to hold space for permanent teeth.
- Restores normal function- Allows you to speak and chew without difficulty.
- Long-Lasting Protect- Crowns last typically until the baby teeth fall out naturally.
After-Treatment Care & Rehabilitation
Your child may feel some minor discomfort after receiving the crown. This will subside quickly. For the crown to last as long as possible:
- For the first 24 hour period, encourage a mild diet.
- Brushing and flossing regularly is essential for good oral hygiene.
- Avoid eating sticky or hard food that may cause the crown to come off.
- Regularly check your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do crowns for baby teeth need to be placed?
Absolutely! Baby teeth are important because they guide permanent teeth into position, even though they eventually fall out. Crowns are important for maintaining the structure and function in the mouth.
Is the procedure painful?
Local anesthesia will be used to make sure your child is pain-free.
How many years do pediatric dental crowns typically last? The majority of crowns will last until the baby teeth fall out naturally, usually between the ages of 10-12.
Is it possible for my child to eat normally following a crown procedure?
Of course! Avoid eating sticky or hard food immediately after the procedure.
Book an appointment Today!
New River Valley Pediatric Dentistry can help if your child's tooth is damaged or decayed. Call us to set up a consultation today and keep your child's teeth healthy and strong.