Kids dental crowns are one of the most popular and effective restorations pediatric dentists use to restore and protect damaged teeth. They are tooth-shaped caps that cover your natural, damaged tooth. While the procedure takes two appointments, it is relatively straightforward and involves little to no discomfort.
Several types of kids dental crowns are available, each with advantages and disadvantages. We recommend crowns that work well for children and would be easy for them to care for. Here are three of the most common:
These dental crowns are the most popular choice due to their natural-looking appearance. The pediatric dentist can design them to closely match the color and transparency of the patient's surrounding natural teeth. They are fabricated by bonding layers of porcelain material to a metal structure, providing durability.
While ceramic dental crowns resemble porcelain in appearance, they more closely mimic natural teeth. They are made entirely of ceramic materials, providing a more durable option. Ceramic crowns are also a better fit for those with metal allergies.
Metal crowns consist of gold, platinum, or base metal alloys and are known for their strength and durability. They can easily withstand chewing forces and are typically reserved for damaged molars (teeth in the back of the mouth).
The first appointment in this process is the longest, taking an hour or more. The first step is thoroughly examining the health and sustainability of the tooth requiring the crown. If necessary, the dentist may order X-rays to receive a clear picture of the tooth's root and surrounding structures and help during the preparation process. To prepare the tooth, they will first numb the patient using a local anesthetic.
This prevents discomfort while keeping the patient alert. Once numb, we will use special tools to remove the decayed or fragile portions of the tooth before shaping it to accommodate the crown. The next two steps will move fairly quickly; they involve impressions and a temporary crown. Once the tooth is prepped, the dentist or dental assistant will take impressions (molds) of it and the surrounding teeth.
The impressions will be sent to an off-site lab where a technician will fabricate the crown from the chosen material. This part of the process takes approximately two weeks to complete. In the meantime, we will place a temporary crown on the patient's vulnerable tooth for protection.
The second appointment is the quickest, usually taking at most thirty minutes. Once the dental office receives the permanent crown, the patient will return to have it placed. The dentist will remove the temporary crown and carefully position the permanent crown over the prepared tooth. They will ensure the proper fit, check the bite alignment, and make any necessary adjustments.
Once the patient is satisfied with the fit and appearance, we will use a permanent cement to bond it around the tooth. Throughout this appointment, the dentist will explain the aftercare and maintenance instructions to help ensure the dental crown lasts for many years to come. Parents may accompany their children during these appointments to keep them comfortable.
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Your child may need a dental crown if they have damaged teeth or are experiencing tooth pain and sensitivity. Our team can walk you and your child through each step of the process, starting with an evaluation. Call us today to determine if a kids dental crown is most suitable for your child.
Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
Kids dental crowns can restore decayed and damaged teeth, even when fillings are not an option. They can also be combined with other restorations, such as dental bridges, to replace missing teeth. Covering, reinforcing, or replacing teeth with crowns promotes good oral health. Crowns also support a child’s oral development, improving speech development, social skills,…
When a child’s tooth becomes damaged or severely decayed, a pediatric dentist may recommend a kids dental crown as an effective solution. These crowns restore the tooth’s function, strength, and appearance while preventing further complications. While baby teeth are temporary, they are a fundamental part of speech development, proper chewing, and guiding the permanent teeth…
Whether your child has a cracked, chipped, or decayed tooth, a kids dental crown can restore it to its original shape. An added benefit of dental crowns is that they can last up to 15 years with proper care. Fortunately, caring for crowns is straightforward, with most patients not needing to change their oral hygiene…
Kids dental crowns can restore decayed and damaged teeth, even when fillings are not an option. They can also be combined with other restorations, such as dental bridges, to replace missing teeth. Covering, reinforcing, or replacing teeth with crowns promotes good oral health. Crowns also support a child’s oral development, improving speech development, social skills,…
When a child’s tooth becomes damaged or severely decayed, a pediatric dentist may recommend a kids dental crown as an effective solution. These crowns restore the tooth’s function, strength, and appearance while preventing further complications. While baby teeth are temporary, they are a fundamental part of speech development, proper chewing, and guiding the permanent teeth…