If your child has a broken, badly decayed, or damaged tooth, they may have been prescribed a dental crown by their pediatric dentist. Naturally, when many kids hear they need this treatment, they worry that getting their new crown might hurt. Thankfully, there’s no reason to be afraid! Here’s what your child can expect from the procedure, and why a dental crown is such an important way to protect their oral health!
What is a Dental Crown?
Think of your child’s dental crown as a deluxe filling. They fit over your existing, damaged tooth like a cap, protecting the structure from further damage, and repairing the affected area, too. Crowns were designed to cover the entire area of the tooth that sits above the gum line and prevent it from needing to be extracted, so your child’s adult teeth can grow in on schedule without causing future alignment issues like premature tooth loss might.
Your dentist prefers to use stainless steel crowns on baby teeth because they are strong and durable. Tooth-colored crowns are better suited to permanent teeth.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
Now, for the important question! The good news is that the first thing your pediatric dentist will do is numb the tooth that needs to be treated. Next, he will make a model of the damaged tooth if necessary. Often, a premade stainless steel baby tooth crown may be available, eliminating the need for a custom crafted one and impressions.
Once measurements are made or a preformed crown is selected, your dentist will remove the damaged enamel. This will not hurt, but it does require the use of a drill. The noise from this can sometimes scare children, but rest assured it is nothing to be afraid of. For children who exhibit mild to moderate anxiety, your dentist also has sedation dentistry options that can often help keep your child calm and comfortable during their dental crown treatment.
Once the damaged enamel is removed, the tooth will either be fitted with a temporary crown while the custom crown is manufactured at the dental lab, or your dentist will place the premade stainless-steel restoration. After it is cemented into place, your child will be free to go home and begin using the treated tooth immediately. They may experience some mild sensitivity for a few days following the procedure, but this is only temporary.
Caring for Your Crown
The great news is that caring for a dental crown is no different than caring for your untreated teeth. Just brush and floss it regularly and be careful not to floss underneath it. It can be used to eat a full, regular diet, including plenty of crunchy, delicious fruits and vegetables. Never use crowns (or your real teeth!) to open packaging, bite fingernails, or chew on pen caps, and they should easily last until your child’s baby tooth falls out naturally.
Remember, getting a dental crown is a very common and safe procedure. These versatile prosthetics are designed to protect your teeth from further damage, all the while restoring their functionality. If your child has been prescribed this treatment, you can rest assured that they will be comfortable, and their smile will be protected for years to come!
About Dr. Rullo
Dr. Michael Rullo was once a mathematics teacher but knew that dentistry was his true calling. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at Western University in London Ontario, and his Pediatric Dental Residency and Masters in Oral Biology in Ohio and today is proud to help kids protect their teeth and gums right here in Hamilton!
If your child has a broken or decayed tooth in need of a dental crown, Dr. Rullo and the team at Hamilton Pediatric Dental Care are proud to offer stainless steel crowns that protect and restore your child’s smile. To schedule an appointment for a crown or for any other reason, please visit our website or call us today at 905-525-8272.