Sometimes, dental crowns are the best solution for a child’s dental problem.Â
When a child has a large crack in a tooth or needs a sizable filling, a dental crown can protect their tooth and restore their ability to chew normally, without pain or further damage to the tooth.
While the idea of a pediatric dental crown may be intimidating, our goal at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry is to make dental hygiene easy. We’ll give you all of the information you need to be confident in your decision to protect your child’s tooth with a dental crown.Â
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a permanent cap that is placed on top of a damaged tooth.Â
The crown’s job is to cover and protect the entire tooth. In contrast, a filling only repairs and protects a small portion of the tooth.
Your child’s dentist may choose from a variety of materials to make the crown. Typical materials include:
- Porcelain
- Porcelain fused to metal (PFM)
- Resin
- Gold
- Zirconium
- Stainless steel
Your dentist will discuss with you the best material for your child’s unique needs. Materials are chosen based on factors like durability, appearance, and cost.Â
For example, metal crowns are the strongest possible material, so it is often recommended for baby teeth, even though adults will typically opt for porcelain.Â
We recommended esthetic zirconia crowns for baby teeth for gum health and its strength. Stainless steel crowns are also optional. Adults will typically opt for esthetic options such as porcelain or Zirconia crowns.
What Makes a Dental Crown Necessary?
Dental crowns are not the first step in addressing damaged or unhealthy teeth. However, they may become necessary when other solutions are unsuccessful or not recommended.Â
Your child may need a dental crown in the following circumstances:Â
- A dental filling has failed, which can happen if the filling falls out or the tooth decay returns.
- A weak tooth needs to be protected from further damage.
- A tooth is broken or damaged, and a crown will protect it.Â
- A dental bridge needs to be supported.Â
- A tooth is discolored from decay that has been treated and resolved.
- A child’s tooth is at high risk for decay, and a crown will prevent losing the tooth.
Adults are more likely than children to get a crown after having a dental implant placed or for cosmetic purposes.Â
What to Expect from Your Dental Crown Appointment with Ashburn Children’s Dentistry
We know that dental procedures can be scary for children and their parents, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
At Ashburn Children’s Dentistry, our focus is on making sure that your child feels safe, comfortable, and anxiety-free during their visit.Â
Before any decisions are made regarding a crown, your dentist will discuss your options with you, including why the crown is recommended, what materials are best, and what you can expect the procedure to cost.Â
Temporary Crowns
Most crowns on baby teeth are completed at the same appointment.
Your child may receive a temporary crown to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is manufactured. Every crown is completely unique and matches your child’s tooth exactly. Once the lab has fabricated your child’s crown, there will be another appointment for placement.Â
Sedation Dentistry
If your child is extremely anxious or unable to sit still, sedation dentistry may be an option. Sedation dentistry uses safe medications to alleviate the patient’s stress levels and create a happier, anxiety-free dentistry visit. Even for crowns!Â
After the process is complete, your dentist will also help you develop a dental hygiene plan that will protect the crown and all of your child’s teeth.Â
Worry-Free Children’s Dentistry in Ashburn, Virginia
Dr. Lynda and Dr. Krystle at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry know that children thrive when they have regular dental cleanings and check-ups, good hygiene practices, and treatment options when problems arise.
Our team at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry are proud to offer dental services for children in Ashburn. We make sure that your child feels safe and secure from the moment they walk into our office to the very end of their appointment.
In many situations, dental crowns serve an important role in the health of a child’s teeth.Â
If you have questions about whether your child might need a crown, we’re happy to answer them! Contact our offices to schedule an appointment or find out the answers to your questions about crowns, fillings, cleanings, and more.Â