Crown Specialist
If your child has a tooth that’s suffered extreme decay or damage, it’s best to protect it with a crown. We can help determine if a crown is the right treatment to restore the appearance and function of your child’s tooth. With locations in Pembroke Pines, Florida and Plantation, Florida, it’s never been more convenient to find expert pediatric dentistry for your family. Call to make an appointment, or use the online booking agent.
Crown Q & A
What is a crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape and function. In adults, crowns are often applied after a root canal or when a tooth is damaged from decay or injury. In some cases of severe decay or damage, it is necessary to give a crown to a child.
Why would a child need a crown?
Crowns may be applied to permanent teeth in older children and teens, especially if there is extensive decay, a crack, or chip. Baby teeth can also receive a crown.
We might recommend a crown for your child for several reasons. For instance, a crown can provide extra protection to a tooth that is at high risk due to severe decay, or save a tooth that has been severely damaged and isn’t ready to fall out. A crown can also prevent the quick spread of decay to other teeth.
Why is it important to save baby teeth if they are going to fall out anyway?
Although baby teeth aren’t permanent, they serve your child for many years. Baby teeth support the shape of the mouth, and the development of speech patterns. These teeth also hold the space for permanent teeth, so that these come in more evenly and healthfully.
Saving the baby teeth can reduce the need for extensive orthodontic work later on in life.
What types of crowns are available?
Pediatric crowns are often made of stainless steel, which is durable and inexpensive. Other advantages to using stainless steel crowns on baby teeth include:
- Full-coverage protection for the tooth
- Attachments for other appliances, like space maintainers
- Less likely to need retreatment
Does a crown require special care?
Your child will care for a tooth with a crown as they would the rest of their teeth. Daily oral hygiene that includes thorough brushing and flossing keeps the crown and underlying tooth healthy.
How is a crown applied to a tooth?
We thoroughly clean and remove any decay from the tooth that’s receiving a crown. We’ll then fit and cement the stainless steel crown over the tooth. Your child may, or may not, require anesthesia during the procedure.
We make recommendations depending on your child’s age and tolerance of previous dental treatments.