Cavities in children are more common than most people think. According to the CDC, 21% of children aged 2 and 5 years old and over 50% of kids between 6 and 11 years old have cavities. Although treatable, a lot of parents think that cavities on baby teeth aren't worth the effort since these teeth are going to fall out anyway. That's a big mistake.
Here's why pediatric dental crowns are necessary.
Obviously, baby teeth help your child chew their food and speak, but their role goes beyond just that. They can also influence your child's long term oral health and here's why.
Baby teeth hold the space for adult teeth and ensure that these will grow in the correct position. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay (or trauma,) the neighboring teeth will shift, trying to compensate for the extra space in their mouth. This could affect the development of adult teeth and create oral problems like crowding or improper bites.
It depends on the severity of the cavity. Most cavities can be treated with just a filling. This is a composite resin that bonds to the tooth, protecting it from further decay.
But, if the cavity is too large and affected most of the tooth's structure, the dentist may need to use a pediatric crown to restore the tooth. This is a small cap made from various materials, such as stainless steel, ceramic or polycarbonate resin. However, the most used and recommended pediatric crowns are the stainless steel ones due to their sturdiness and longevity.
Just from the get go, let us assure you that at Pediatric Dental World, your child will have a fun and positive experience.
First, the dentist will clean the tooth to remove the decay. Then, they will prepare it and take a mold that they will use to create the crown. This mold will actually be sent to a specialized lab where a team of technicians will manufacture a crown that will perfectly fit your child's mouth.
You will have to come for a second appointment during which the dentist will check the crown and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it to your child's tooth.
Your child will then be able to return to their regular routine as dental crowns don't require any special treatment.
Baby teeth can and should be saved, so don't wait until it's too late. If your child has tooth pain, get in touch with Pediatric Dental World and come in for a consultation.
You can contact us online as well as call us at (972) 317-6997 to book your kid's appointment.
We proudly serve Highland Village & Double Oak!
