You may have heard of dental crowns as a way to restore the strength and function of a damaged tooth. Did you know that they’re not just a treatment available to adults? Depending on the case, dental crowns can also be used to restore the smile of your child.
In this blog post, we give an overview of the benefits of pediatric dental crowns and when this treatment may be the right choice for your child.
What Is a Dental Crown?
Whether for kids or adults, dental crowns work as a protective covering over a natural tooth after decay has been removed or after a tooth has suffered damage. Sometimes a cavity is so far developed that a filling isn’t enough to restore a tooth’s strength. A crown can protect a filled, broken, or cracked tooth from additional damage or infection and fortify it when chewing.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns for Kids
It’s usually best to preserve a natural permanent tooth root. Thus, a crown atop a natural tooth is often preferable to a tooth extraction and replacement, such as a bridge, partial denture, or dental implant. Keeping the permanent teeth saves money by not having to get a tooth replacement, feels natural, and preserves the jawbone health. A full arch of teeth allows your child to speak and smile confidently and get enough nutrition.
Sometimes a baby tooth needs a dental crown. Baby teeth do a lot more work than you may realize! They act as placeholders for the underlying permanent teeth that are going to come in. That means that if a baby tooth comes out too early due to decay or damage, it can negatively affect the alignment of your child’s teeth, as well your child’s nutrition, speech, and confidence. Unless a space maintainer is a better option for your child, we may recommend a dental crown to keep the baby tooth root healthy and intact before it falls out naturally.
Pediatric Dental Crowns in Austin, TX
If you have more questions about dental crowns for kids, please reach out to us at Austin Pearls Pediatric Dentistry. Our friendly team can answer any questions you may have related to your child’s oral health.
We provide a wide range of services, including dental crowns, so we’re happy to discuss whether or not they’re the right option for your child. Contact us today!