Five Important Things to Know About a Baby Dental Crown

The idea of a baby dental crown may spark fear in parents. However, rest assured that the procedure is straightforward and efficient. Modern-day dentistry has evolved quite a bit, and the dental specialist or pediatric dentist that performs this procedure undergoes extensive training to ensure perfection during and after the procedure is complete.

When parents are told that their child needs a baby dental crown, it can be helpful to become familiar with how this treatment works ahead of the appointment. This can ease anxieties and fears, thus preparing parents and their children for the upcoming procedure. Continue reading to learn more about baby dental crowns and what is involved in the procedure.

Five things to know about baby dental crowns

Outlined below are a few important things to know about baby dental crowns. Review this information in order to have an understanding of what to expect. 

1. Safety

Baby dental crowns are safe. Parents are often hesitant regarding the idea of putting a child through an involved procedure; however, it is important to know that the entire process is safe for the child.

Pediatric dentists undergo very thorough training and education in order to perfect certain procedures, such as baby dental crown placement. This special training ensures that the procedure is performed safely and efficiently. Ultimately, the goal of the pediatric dentist is to restore the baby's tooth to good health, which will set the child up for success when it comes to maintaining good oral health. Long-term, the tooth that undergoes the placement of the baby dental crown will be in a much better place until it falls out and is replaced by an adult tooth.

2. Restorative

Parents should know that baby dental crowns are restorative. When a tooth becomes damaged, it requires special care, especially in children as they are less able to control their mouths. It may seem unnecessary in some situations; however, a dentist can completely repair a tooth so that full function can be restored. It is also crucial to know that pediatric dentists will only recommend a baby dental crown if absolutely necessary. 

3. Therapeutic

Another thing to know is that baby dental crowns are therapeutic. When a child's tooth is in bad shape due to damage or decay, it requires treatment. Baby dental crowns provide therapy to the tooth in bad shape, meaning there will no longer be pain or discomfort after the procedure is complete. Additionally, it is a conservative approach, which ensures that the majority of the natural tooth remains.

4. Preventive

While parents may feel hesitant about baby dental crowns, it can be helpful to know that they do offer preventive protection to children who are at risk of developing further cavities or infections. Baby dental crowns completely cover the natural tooth, which eliminates the possibility that bacteria will get in and damage the tooth. This, of course, also ensures that the space will be set up for good health until the adult tooth comes in. 

While some parents may wonder why it is even necessary to keep the tooth in good health since it will later fall out, it is necessary to understand that when a baby tooth falls out without the adult tooth growing in, there is a potential for a serious shift. This can cause the need for additional treatments. 

5. Lifespan

Another important thing to know about baby dental crowns is that they may not last forever. Baby teeth, also known as the primary teeth, will eventually fall out. Once they fall out, the secondary or adult teeth grow in, which are permanent. Children that are near the age when their teeth will fall out may be given a baby dental crown made of composite resin instead of a more durable material, such as gold, metal alloy, or ceramic.

Composite resin is used most commonly as a temporary material for fillings and crowns. While strong and reliable, the material can become worn over time. If the child is very young, the pediatric dentist may recommend a more durable baby dental crown material to ensure a strong restoration until the tooth falls out. 

Getting started with a baby dental crown

Parents that still feel concerned about the baby dental crown process can consult directly with a pediatric dentist to find out more. Any FAQs or concerns can be addressed by the dentist, which can be helpful for parents. The pediatric dentist can also perform an evaluation to determine whether a baby dental crown is a suitable option. Contact us today to learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

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