When are Dental Crowns Necessary for Children
Your child’s baby teeth need a lot of care. They play a huge role in chewing, speech development and guide the eruption of permanent teeth.
However, milk teeth are more susceptible to damage, and decay because of their thin enamel. There can also be developmental issues.
While filling is the common solution for minor decay, there are scenarios when the dentist will recommend dental crown.
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Children find the dental clinic environment warming, where they get motivated to start developing strong oral habit for life. Here is when dental crowns are necessary for your children:
Extensive tooth decay
When a cavity gets severe and compromises a significant portion of the tooth structure, a filling is not sufficient. A crown acts as a protective cap.
It completely encases the tooth and restores its strength and functionality. It is crucial for maintaining proper chewing and preventing further decay.
Fractured or chipped teeth
Children are loaded with energy, due to which they can possibly fall or bump into something. During such accidents their tooth may get fractured or chipped.
The dentist suggests a crown to restore its size and shape. This prevents further damage to exposed tooth structure and even keeps their smile looking good.
Severely worn teeth
Children have common issue like teeth grinding [bruxism]. The consistent friction can wear down the tooth enamel, leaving it vulnerable. In such cases, a crown acts as a protective barrier, safeguarding the tooth and preventing further wear.
Root canal therapy follow-up
Root canal is necessary in kids experiencing deep infection. Following the root canal, the tooth gets brittle and susceptible to damage. A crown provides the much-needed strength, ensuring the tooth stays sturdy and functional.
Space maintainers
Due to accident or decay, your child loses a baby tooth prematurely. The chances that the permanent tooth will erupt in an incorrect position are high.
So, the dentist will recommend space maintainers. A crown can be used as part of space maintainer, keeping the space open for the permanent tooth to properly emerge.