Pediatric Dental Cavity Treatment: Filling or Crown?

Pediatric Dental Cavity Treatment: Filling or Crown? from Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry in Middletown, NYTwo of the most common pediatric dental treatments for cavities are fillings and crowns. Both dental fillings and dental crowns offer unique benefits, but one may be preferable to another depending on the specifics of the cavity needing treatment. This review discusses why a pediatric dental professional opts for either a filling or a crown. Read on to learn more about each one and when we might recommend them.

Is a filling or a crown better for a pediatric dental cavity?

Whether or not a filling or a crown is more appropriate for a pediatric dental cavity depends on the severity of the cavity, the location of the tooth, and the patient’s preference. The following is an overview of what a dental filling and dental crown are and how to choose between the two options when it comes to pediatric dental treatment.

What is a dental filling?

A dental filling is an artificial material that is placed in the cavity of a tooth after tooth decay erodes the enamel (the outermost layer of a tooth). There are different material types a pediatric dentist may use for a dental filling. Most commonly, fillings are amalgam or porcelain. Dental fillings are most suitable for small cavities, whereas they may not be enough to address larger cavities or more severe forms of tooth damage.

When is a pediatric dental filling recommended?

We typically recommend a pediatric dental filling when the cavity is minor and does not compromise the overall strength or structure of the decayed tooth. Fillings are often the preferable solution as they are less invasive and should last for the entire lifespan of baby teeth as long as they are well cared for in the long term.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown, also called a dental cap, is a restoration that encapsulates a dental cavity or broken tooth on all sides. Dental crowns consist of either ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, metal alloy, or gold alloy. The type of material that a pediatric dentist recommends depends on the location of the tooth and the parent’s preference for their child. Crowns are generally recommended when the tooth is more severely damaged or decayed and needs additional protection from further decay or damage.

When is a pediatric dental crown recommended?

A pediatric dental crown may be the recommended restoration if the tooth is damaged more severely or due to dental trauma. Often, we use dental crowns when the tooth is in jeopardy of becoming lost due to how weak it has become from damage or decay. In other words, if the cavity is too severe for a filling, then a dental crown may be the more appropriate solution.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Middletown, NY

Schedule a pediatric dental visit with our kid-friendly team

Does your child have a cavity or damaged tooth? If so, contact our pediatric dental team today to schedule a visit and determine whether a filling, a crown, or another restoration is right for you.

Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.

Recent Posts

Child Dentist Visits: What Parents Should Expect

A child dentist can help your child achieve better dental and general health. Regular visits allow your child to get used to dental checks, tools, and equipment. Dental fear disappears, and the young patient can continue having a bright, painless smile. Here are what parents like you should look forward to during child dentist appointments.Choosing…

Effective Options For Cavity Treatment For Kids

Cavity treatment for kids is essential for a child’s oral health. Dental decay can cause discomfort, causing the child to lose focus at school. It can even result in low self-esteem and malnutrition. Treating cavities can improve your child’s general health. Here are effective techniques for cavity treatment for kids.There are cases when fillings cannot…

Essential Tips For Children's Tooth Care: A Parent's Guide

Parents play a crucial role in their children's tooth care by ensuring their children get started on the right path to optimal dental health. This involves overseeing children's tooth care at home while also helping them develop healthy dental habits and ensuring they see a pediatric dentist regularly.Parents will need to keep their child's mouth…

Recent Posts

How Can Parents Prepare Their Child For A Pediatric Root Canal?

How Can Parents Prepare Their Child For A Pediatric Root Canal?

Curious about pediatric root canals? Read on to learn more about this common procedure. If your child needs a pediatric root canal, it might be a stressful and anxious time for both of you. However, you as a parent must prepare them. The treatment is often needed if the tooth has extensive decay or infection…

Dental Crowns After A Pediatric Root Canal: What To Know

Dental Crowns After A Pediatric Root Canal: What To Know

A pediatric root canal is a restorative procedure that can preserve the overall health of a child’s smile. This applies even if the affected tooth is a primary tooth. After the procedure, a pediatric dentist will likely place a dental crown on top of the treated tooth. Crowns not only protect the treated tooth but…