When it comes to pediatric dental care in Florham Park, one of the most common treatments is the use of pediatric dental crowns. These are tooth-shaped "caps" that are placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance. Pediatric dental crowns are often used when a child's tooth has been damaged by decay or trauma and can't be repaired with a simple filling. They can be made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel and tooth-colored composite resin. At The Smile Den, Dr. Amie Shah specializes in pediatric dentistry and has extensive experience in the placement of pediatric dental crowns.
Why Should I Get Pediatric Dental Crowns?
If your child has a tooth that's been severely damaged by decay or injury, a dental crown can be an effective solution. A crown can protect a weak tooth from breaking, hold together parts of a cracked tooth, and can be used to hold a dental bridge in place. Crowns can also cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth, improving your child's smile and boosting their self-confidence. Moreover, crowns can help preserve the health of your child's mouth by preventing further decay and infection.
The Benefits Of Pediatric Dental Crowns
Protects Damaged Teeth
Pediatric dental crowns effectively cover and protect damaged teeth, ensuring that further damage or decay is prevented. They act as a shield, guarding the tooth against harmful bacteria and potential infection. This is particularly important for children, as their oral hygiene habits may not be fully established yet.
Restores Functionality
Another significant benefit of pediatric dental crowns is the restoration of tooth functionality. If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it can interfere with your child's ability to eat and speak properly. A dental crown can restore the shape and size of the tooth, making it easier for your child to chew food and speak clearly.
Improves Appearance
Pediatric dental crowns also play a crucial role in improving the appearance of your child's teeth. They can cover discolored or misshapen teeth, resulting in a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile. This can greatly enhance your child's self-esteem and confidence.
The Pediatric Dental Crowns Treatment Process
Examination and Preparation
The first step in the process involves a thorough examination of your child's mouth. Dr. Shah will determine if a crown is the best treatment option and prepare the tooth for the crown. This may involve removing decay and reshaping the tooth to fit the crown properly.
Taking Impressions
Once the tooth is prepared, an impression of the tooth will be taken. This impression will be used to create a custom crown that fits your child's tooth perfectly. The crown will be designed to match the color of your child's other teeth, ensuring a natural appearance.
Crown Placement
After the crown has been created, it will be carefully fitted onto your child's tooth. Dr. Shah will ensure that the crown fits correctly and is comfortable in your child's mouth. Once everything is perfect, the crown will be cemented into place, completing the process.
Before & Afters
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of crowns are used in pediatric dentistry?
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In pediatric dentistry the most frequently used crowns are stainless steel crowns. They're ideal for baby (primary) teeth and are known for their durability and cost-effectiveness. They are typically used for molars and are a popular choice due to their strength and ability to withstand the forces of chewing.
Stainless steel crowns are pre-made and can be easily adjusted to fit a child's tooth, making them a quick and efficient solution. This also means they're inexpensive, which is ideal for treating a baby tooth. Stainless steel crowns keep baby teeth healthy until they fall out naturally and are replaced with permanent teeth.
There are also tooth-colored crowns, such as zirconia and porcelain crowns, which are gaining popularity due to their natural appearance. These types of crowns are tooth-colored, custom-built to fit onto each tooth, and provide a more aesthetically pleasing option, especially for front teeth. They are strong, biocompatible, and resistant to wear, making them a great choice for parents who are concerned about the appearance of their child's smile.
Each type of crown has its own set of advantages, and the choice of crown depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the child's dental health. Stainless steel crowns are usually better for baby teeth, while tooth-colored crowns are the superior option for restoring permanent adult teeth. Confused? Don’t worry. Dr. Amie Shah and her team at The Smile Den are well-versed in these options and can help you make an informed decision that best suits your child’s needs.
How long do pediatric crowns last?
The longevity of pediatric crowns can vary depending on several factors, including the type of crown used, the child's oral hygiene habits, and the amount of wear and tear the crown experiences.
Generally, stainless steel crowns are known for their durability and can last until the primary tooth naturally falls out, which is usually around the age of 12. These crowns are designed to withstand the rigors of daily chewing and are often the crown of choice for molars that endure more pressure.
Tooth-colored crowns like zirconia and porcelain crowns typically have a longer lifespan than stainless steel prostheses, and usually last between 10-20 years. That makes them a superior option for restoring adult teeth.
To ensure the longevity of any pediatric crown, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, and to attend routine dental check-ups. Dr. Amie Shah and her team at The Smile Den emphasize the importance of preventive care to help extend the life of your child's dental restorations.
What is the youngest age when a child can get a crown?
The youngest age at which a child can receive a dental crown is typically around two years old, but it’s extremely rare for children this young to require a crown. Very young children typically only require crowns if they experience significant early childhood cavities (such as baby bottle tooth decay) or if they suffer from trauma that significantly damages one or more of their baby teeth.
Pediatric dentists are trained to evaluate the necessity of a crown on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the child's overall oral health, the extent of tooth damage, and the importance of preserving the tooth.
At The Smile Den in Florham Park, NJ, Dr. Amie Shah specializes in pediatric dentistry and is adept at determining the appropriate age and circumstances for placing crowns on young children. Her compassionate approach ensures that even the youngest patients receive the care they need in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Is it normal for kids to get crowns on their teeth?
Yes, it is quite normal for children to receive dental crowns. Pediatric dental crowns are an essential treatment option designed to restore and protect a child's primary teeth that have been damaged due to decay, trauma, or developmental issues.
While some parents might be surprised to hear that their child needs a crown for a baby tooth, it's important to understand that “baby” or “primary” teeth play a crucial role in maintaining proper spacing for permanent teeth, aiding in speech development, and ensuring overall oral health.
Even though they will eventually fall out and be replaced by an adult tooth, primary teeth are essential for your child’s oral development. So when a primary tooth is severely decayed or damaged, a crown is a great choice to help preserve the tooth's function and prevent further complications. Pediatric dentists, like Dr. Amie Shah at The Smile Den in Florham Park, NJ, are skilled in assessing when a crown is the best option for your child's dental health.
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