Anytime your child has a cavity, it is no fun. When the cavity is severe enough and there is too much damage to the tooth, it can require a crown to fully treat the problem. Knowing when a crown is the best solution for your child’s cavity is important for a number of reasons. Smile Reef is here to talk about cavities in kids and why crowns can be the right solution to fixing a cavity rather than a filling.
Why Some Cavities Need a Crown Instead of a Filling
A cavity is when there is decay in a tooth. While some cavities are a small amount of decay and can easily be solved using a filling, there are some that have widespread decay that can impact the structure of the tooth. In these situations, a crown is the best way to give the tooth the structure it needs until it falls out, and the permanent tooth comes through. Teeth have to go through a lot with daily chewing. It is important that the tooth structure can handle it.
How a Crown Works to Protect a Baby Tooth
When decay is widespread in a baby tooth, a crown is used to completely cover the tooth and offers a more complete treatment. This can help provide protection for the tooth against further wear and decay. It can also help you avoid more dental work on that same tooth before your child loses it. Here are some signs that indicate your pediatric dentist may want to consider a crown over a filling to treat your child’s cavity.
– The cavity is affecting several areas of the tooth
– The tooth is a baby molar that is going to need to stay intact for several more years
– The tooth needs treatment after nerve therapy
– There are cracks or signs of weakening and structural damage to the tooth
What to Expect During a Crown
When your child needs a crown, you may be wondering what to expect throughout the process. During this appointment, the dentist is going to remove all the decay that is found in the tooth. There is some shaping that will happen as well to make sure the crown fits properly. The crown can often be made and set all in the same day. It is totally normal for children to experience some tenderness and pain the day that the crown is set. The mouth heals quickly and your child should be able to return to normal activity soon.
Pediatric Dentistry
It is vital that your child is brushing and flossing regularly to establish good oral care habits. At Smile Reef, we specialize in pediatric oral health. We work with parents and kids to help establish good oral hygiene. When your child does have a cavity, and even has a cavity that requires a crown, you can rely on us to take care of them. Call us today!