Kids dental crowns vs. Dental Bridges

Pediatric dentists use kids dental crowns and bridges to restore and protect the teeth of young patients, ensuring that their smiles stay healthy and functional. While both restorations can address dental issues, there are differences in how dentists apply them, their purpose, and the number of teeth involved. Understanding these differences helps parents make informed decisions about their child's oral health and development.

kids dental crowns

Pediatric dentists often use kids dental crowns to restore and strengthen a child's weakened or damaged tooth. These tooth-shaped caps cover the affected tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function. Dentists typically recommend crowns for primary or permanent teeth with extensive decay, fractures, or structural weakness that they cannot effectively treat with a dental filling.

The pediatric dentist will examine the child's tooth before placing a kids dental crown. They may take X-rays to assess the extent of decay or damage. In cases where the decay has reached the tooth's pulp, the dentist may recommend a pulpotomy. This is a procedure similar to a root canal but for primary teeth. Once the dentist treats the infection or decay, they reshape the tooth before placing a pre-made crown.

Kids dental crowns for children often consist of stainless steel or zirconia. Stainless steel crowns are often used for primary (baby) teeth because they are durable and cost-effective. Meanwhile, zirconia crowns provide a more natural appearance and are ideal for the child's front teeth. Since dental crowns made for children are usually pre-made, the procedure can often be completed in a single visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns. However, this can vary from practice to practice.

Following the procedure, children should avoid sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours. Parents will need to help them maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing. Good habits can extend the life of the crown and prevent further complications.

Dental bridges

Unlike crowns, which protect and restore individual teeth, dental bridges replace missing teeth. Bridges consist of artificial teeth (pontics) supported by crowns or metal wings placed on adjacent healthy teeth, also known as abutment teeth. Dental bridges are typically not recommended for young children, as their jaws and teeth are still developing. However, if a child loses a baby tooth prematurely, the pediatric dentist may recommend this restoration as a temporary solution to prevent issues with oral development.

There are different types of dental bridges, including fixed and removable options. The dentist will assess the patient's age and oral health and determine the most suitable type based on their needs. The abutment teeth may need to be reshaped to accommodate the crowns. Then, the pediatric dentist will take impressions of the young patient's teeth and the missing tooth space, sending them to an off-site dental lab for a custom bridge. While waiting for the permanent bridge, the dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth.

After placing the permanent bridge, the patient should avoid chewy or sticky foods for the first 24 hours. For their long-term oral hygiene, they should use dental tools like floss threaders to effectively clean under the bridge. Regular dental checkups can also help ensure the restoration remains healthy and intact.