At Kid Focus Dentistry in Wheat Ridge, CO, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive dental care for children. In some cases, dental crowns may be recommended as part of the treatment plan for your child’s oral health. Let’s explore why baby teeth should be saved, how we deal with cavities, the types of crowns used in pediatric dentistry, and why it’s essential to schedule a consultation with our experienced team.
Dental crowns for children play a crucial role in preserving baby teeth and maintaining proper oral health as their smile develops. By understanding the significance of baby teeth, addressing cavities promptly, and utilizing appropriate types of crowns for children’s smiles, we can ensure your child’s dental well-being.
Why Baby Teeth Should Be Saved
You may wonder why it’s necessary to save baby teeth if they will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth in what seems like a fairly short timeframe. The reality is that baby teeth—also called primary teeth—play a vital role in your child’s oral and facial development. Most notably, they maintain space for the permanent teeth developing below them. Losing a baby tooth prematurely can lead to misalignment of the permanent teeth, resulting in impacted teeth, abnormal jaw growth, and may require orthodontic treatment later on to correct. By preserving baby teeth until it’s time for them to fall out naturally, our Wheat Ridge kids dentists can help preserve the proper development of your child’s facial development and set the stage for a healthy smile in the future.
Dealing with Cavities
Cavities are a common occurrence in children, primarily due to dietary choices or inadequate oral hygiene in hard-to-reach spaces. The truth is, baby teeth are more susceptible to decay because they do not have as dense of enamel as their permanent counterparts do. When a cavity is detected in a baby tooth, prompt treatment is essential. Early care helps prevent further damage and spread of decay into adjacent teeth (or underlying permanent teeth.) It also delays premature tooth loss. In cases where a cavity is fairly extensive or significantly weakens the structural integrity of the tooth, a dental crown is usually recommended.
Types of Crowns for Pediatric Dentistry
Dental crowns used in pediatric dentistry are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of children. They are made from durable materials that can withstand the forces of chewing and protect the tooth from further decay and maintain proper spacing as their bite develops. Here are some common types of crowns used for children:
1. Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs): Stainless steel crowns are the most frequently used type of crown in pediatric dentistry. They are prefabricated and can be quickly and easily fitted over the affected tooth. Stainless steel crowns are highly durable and cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for restoring decayed baby teeth.
2. Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are made from a tooth-colored ceramic material that closely resembles natural tooth enamel. They are a popular choice for children who require aesthetic restorations in the front of their smile. Zirconia crowns are known for their excellent strength and durability, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
3. Composite Strip Crowns: Composite strip crowns are made from tooth-colored resin material, similar to white fillings. They are used primarily for front teeth and provide good cosmetic results when aesthetics are a concern. Composite strip crowns are more conservative compared to other types of crowns and offer a more natural-looking appearance.
Schedule a Consultation
If your child has a cavity or a dental issue that requires a dental crown, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with our experienced kids dentists in Wheat Ridge, CO. During the consultation, we will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth, discuss the treatment options available, and address any concerns you may have. Our friendly and caring team is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care in a comfortable environment, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your child’s oral health.
At Kid Focus Dentistry, we’re here to help your child achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Don’t hesitate to call us for a second opinion or new patient pediatric dental exam!