What is a Baby Tooth Crown?
Crowns (also known as “caps”) are most often used for teeth that are broken, worn, have portions destroyed by tooth decay, or post a root canal. The terms crown and cap are used interchangeably.
How Do Caps on Baby Teeth Work?
Crowns are used to improve a tooth’s shape and to strengthen a tooth after decay. When crowns or caps are used on baby teeth it is typically intended just to help replace the function of the natural tooth until it is ready to fall out on its own.
What is the Procedure to Put Crowns on Baby Teeth?
Unlike crowns for adults, which often require several visits to the dentists, most crowns for children can be placed in a single procedure.
While the exact procedure may vary based on the patient and the type of pediatric crowns being used, this is a high-level overview of the general procedure.
The first step is for the dentist to use a numbing gel and a local anesthetic to completely numb the area.
Since some children experience anxiety when seeing a dentist, the child may be consciously sedated (relaxed, yet completely aware of all that is going on) using either; nitrous oxide (laughing gas), medicine in the form of a syrup, or pill, IV sedation (in situations where there is a need for major restoration involving many teeth).
Next, the dentist will place the dental dam. A dental dam is a small piece of latex or similar material used to isolate the tooth being treated. The dental dam also functions to protect the tooth, keep the area around the tooth dry, and can help the child feel safe and protected because it provides a barrier between the child and the dentist.
The dentist will use a special tool called a handpiece. First, they will remove any decay and then they will shape the tooth for optimal placement of the crown. The dentist will choose the best-sized crown to fit the tooth. The crown will be polished and filled with cement. The crown will then be pressed into place over the tooth. Once the crown is placed on the tooth, the dentist will remove any extra cement or debris and will rinse the child’s mouth.
The new crown fully covers the portion of the tooth above the gum line and becomes the tooth’s new outer surface.
What Types Of Baby Crowns Are There?
The location and type of tooth is often the deciding factor on which type of crown to use.
At True Dental Care, we offer pediatric crowns made of:
- Stainless Steel – When a crown on a molar is needed, stainless steel is common because it is more durable on the teeth that do the most chewing. Due to the blend of various metals, stainless steel crowns help prevent corrosion that can be exacerbated by saliva. Because they do not have a natural tooth color, the best place for these types of crowns is in the back area of the mouth. This type of baby teeth crown is also the most cost-effective.
- Composite Strip – This type of baby teeth cap is used primarily on the front teeth as they are made with a clear plastic form or mold and will blend more with the natural color of the teeth.
- Polycarbonate – This is another type used on the front baby teeth and costs less than the other options, but since their durability varies, this is a temporary restoration.
- Resin Veneer – This type of crown combines the durability of stainless steel with the beauty of a resin facing, so its use can be on both the front and back baby teeth. The resin veneer baby teeth crowns are typically more expensive than stainless steel, composite and polycarbonate crowns.
- Zirconia Ceramic – Also known as the “white crown”, zirconia ceramic can be used on the front or back teeth. It’s considered the top of the line when it comes to durability and aesthetics. It is also the most costly out of all the porcelain crown types for children’s teeth. Zirconia ceramic is composed of a porcelain material that does not bend, mold, or adjust as the stainless steel type does.
Caps on Baby Teeth – A Proven Solution to Prevent Cavities in Kids!
Are dental crowns or caps better than Fillings?
Dental Crowns for Kids restore a tooth’s shape, size and function, as well as provide structural support and strength for the tooth. Pediatric crown restorations also aid in the normal development of a child’s jawbone and muscles, while allowing for chewing of food and proper speech development. Crowns also cover the entire tooth and therefore prevent further decay.
Do Dental Crowns Look Natural?
Pediatric Dental crowns can look very natural and similar to the original teeth. The crown is designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size and original appearance.
What Steps Can You Take to Avoid Needing Baby Teeth Caps?
The best way to avoid cavities, dental decay, and ultimately needing a crown, is to implement a regular brushing and flossing routine at an early age.
- Brush your teeth twice a day using an electric toothbrush
- Floss everyday
- Avoid biting on hard food, candy or ice
- When playing sports children should wear a mouthguard for protection
- Schedule regular checkups and cleanings every 6 months with your dentist.
We Can Help You Prepare for Your Child For Adult Teeth
Even though their baby teeth will eventually fall out, they still form the backbone for the development of your child’s adult teeth. If dental cavities or decay of your child’s teeth are a concern we are here to help you. For answers to all your Pediatric dental concerns and excellent Pediatric Dentist in Downtown Jersey City call us at (201) 565-0890.
