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When it comes to maintaining your child’s oral health, dental crowns may become a necessary part of their dental care journey. But what exactly is a dental crown, and how does the procedure work for children?
At Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to educate parents and help them make the best decisions for their child’s oral health.
In this blog, we’ll break down the step-by-step dental crown procedure for children so you can understand it and prepare your child for it.
Table of Contents
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. This dental restoration can be made from a variety of materials, such as:
- Stainless steel
- Stainless steel with a white facing
- Composite
- Zirconia
Stainless steel dental crowns are a durable and cost-effective option for children. However, the type of crown material chosen depends on the child’s needs and the dentist’s recommendation.
When Is a Dental Crown Needed?
Crowns may be recommended if certain conditions are present.
- A decayed tooth that is unlikely to be repaired with dental fillings.
- A tooth that has had a root canal treatment.
- A cracked or weak tooth that needs extra support.
- Malformed or discolored teeth that need cosmetic improvement.
Key Takeaway
A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. The process of getting a crown involves removing any decay or damage and replacing it with a dental crown. Crowns are made of different materials such as composite, zirconia or stainless steel.
What To Expect When Getting a Dental Crown
The dental crown process can be completed in one visit to the dental office. Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in getting a dental crown:
- Dental exam: The first step is for the dentist to examine your child’s tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of damage and if a dental crown is needed.
- Numbing: Local anesthesia will be administered near the tooth that needs the crown to ensure your child feels no pain or discomfort during the procedure. Discuss sedation dentistry options with your dentist for anxious or special needs patients.
- Tooth preparation: The dentist will shape the tooth, removing any decayed or damaged parts to accommodate the dental crown.
- Dental impressions: A digital scan will create an accurate impression of the prepared tooth. This impression will be used to create a custom crown based on your child’s unique tooth structure.
- Crown placement: All crowns, including white zirconia and stainless steel crowns, are applied in one visit for your child’s convenience and safety. The crown is applied and placed with dental cement so your child can resume normal activities.
Dental Crown Recovery: What To Expect
After the procedure, your child may feel some discomfort, but it should go away within a few days. Follow these dental care tips and give them over-the-counter pain medication as directed by their dentist to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Encourage your child to eat soft foods and avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage the crown.
- Help them brush their teeth gently, avoiding the crowned tooth for a few days.
- Follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist.
Prepare Your Child for Dental Crowns
If your child needs a dental crown or any dental procedure, it’s essential to prepare them mentally and emotionally for the procedure. Here are some tips to help ease their nerves:
- Explain the purpose: Be honest with your child about why they need a dental crown, using simple language they can understand.
- Talk to them: Before their appointment, talk with your child about what they can expect during the procedure and address any concerns.
- Watch videos: Show them kid-friendly videos or books that explain the dental crown procedure. This can help reduce any fear or anxiety.
The team at Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry is experienced in providing gentle and compassionate care for children undergoing dental procedures like crowns. We work closely with parents to address concerns and ensure a comfortable experience for their children.
Tips for Dental Health Prevention
Preventing dental issues is just as important as treating them. By teaching your child good dental habits from a young age, you can help them maintain oral health. Here are some prevention tips:
- Encourage daily brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay. Brush at least twice a day and floss once daily to remove plaque.
- Regular dental check-ups are essential for children. Dentists can identify potential problems early and provide necessary treatments.
- Healthy eating habits can also help prevent dental issues. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can cause tooth decay.
- Consider using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
- Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the back teeth to prevent cavities. Ask your dentist about them for added dental protection.
Establish good oral hygiene habits early on to protect your child’s teeth in the long run.
Kids Dental Crowns in Phoenix, AZ
At Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry, we create a warm and welcoming environment for children’s dental visits. Our friendly team ensures stress-free and enjoyable experiences through compassionate care. We are committed to supporting your child’s oral health journey every step of the way.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Martinez at Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry to see why he is the top pediatric dentist in Phoenix, AZ. Call (602) 935-7427 or complete the online booking form.If you are searching for ‘kids dental crowns near me,’ contact Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry.