Dental crowns are a common solution for various dental issues in children, ranging from tooth decay to structural damage. Many parents in Spokane Valley often wonder, Are dental crowns safe for children? This blog aims to provide expert insights into the safety and benefits of dental crowns for kids, ensuring you make an informed decision for your child’s dental health.

Understanding Dental Crowns for Kids

Dental crowns cap damaged or destroyed teeth to restore their strength, size, shape, and appearance. Dentists typically use dental crowns for children when a tooth has significant decay or damage that a simple filling can’t repair. The primary goal is to preserve the tooth and maintain its function until it naturally falls out and a permanent tooth replaces it.

Types of Dental Crowns for Kids

Children can get dental crowns in a variety of forms, each with special advantages:

1. Stainless Steel Crowns are the most commonly used crowns for children’s teeth. They are durable, cost-effective, and usually used for molars due to their strength.
2. Composite Strip Crowns, made of tooth-colored composite material, are more aesthetically pleasing and are usually applied to the front teeth.
3. Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are also tooth-colored and offer a more natural appearance. They are highly durable and biocompatible, making them an excellent choice for both front and back teeth.
4. Resin Crowns: Made from hard plastic, resin crowns are another aesthetically pleasing option, though they may not be as durable as stainless steel or zirconia crowns.

Why Are Dental Crowns Necessary for Children?

Dental crowns are essential for maintaining the dental health of children for several reasons:

1. Tooth Decay: Severe tooth decay that cannot be treated with a filling may require a crown to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
2. Broken or Damaged Teeth: Crowns can protect and restore teeth that are broken or damaged due to trauma or injury.
3. Strengthening Teeth: Crowns provide additional strength to teeth that are weak or have undergone significant dental work, such as root canals.
4. Preventing Further Decay: By covering the entire tooth, crowns can prevent further decay and infection, safeguarding the tooth until it is naturally replaced.

Are Dental Crowns Safe for Children?

Safety is a primary concern for any parent considering dental crowns for their child. According to dental experts, dental crowns are indeed safe for children when placed by a qualified pediatric dentist. Here are some key points regarding the safety of dental crowns for kids in Spokane Valley:

1. Biocompatibility: Materials used in dental crowns, such as stainless steel, zirconia, and composite resins, are biocompatible. This means they are not harmful to the body and do not cause adverse reactions.
2. Durability and Protection: Dental crowns are designed to withstand the forces of chewing and biting. They protect the underlying tooth from further decay and damage, ensuring the child’s dental health is maintained.
3. Minimal Risk: The procedure for placing dental crowns is straightforward and minimally invasive. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle children’s dental procedures with care, making the process safe and comfortable for young patients.
4. Preservation of Natural Teeth: One of the primary benefits of dental crowns is that they help preserve the natural teeth. By maintaining the function and structure of the tooth, crowns ensure that the surrounding teeth and gums remain healthy.

The Procedure for Placing Dental Crowns in Kids

The process of placing dental crowns for kids involves several steps, ensuring the crown fits properly and functions effectively:

1. Examination and X-rays: The dentist will first examine the tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the decay or damage.
2. Preparation: The tooth is then prepared by removing the decayed portion and shaping it to fit the crown. Local anesthesia is often used to ensure the child is comfortable.
3. Crown Placement: The dentist selects a pre-made crown that fits the tooth’s size and shape. The crown is then cemented onto the tooth using a special dental adhesive.
4. Adjustments: After placement, the dentist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure the crown fits correctly and the child’s bite is comfortable.

Benefits of Dental Crowns for Kids

Dental crowns offer numerous benefits for children, making them a valuable option for addressing various dental issues:

1. Restoration of Function: Crowns restore the normal function of teeth, allowing children to chew and speak properly.
2. Aesthetic Improvement: Especially with tooth-colored crowns, the appearance of the tooth is improved, boosting the child’s confidence.
3. Prevention of Further Issues: By protecting the tooth from further decay and damage, crowns help prevent more extensive dental problems in the future.
4. Longevity: Dental crowns offer a long-term option until the original tooth is replaced. They are strong and can endure for several years.

Dental crowns for kids in Spokane Valley are a safe and effective solution for addressing severe tooth decay and damage. By consulting with a qualified pediatric dentist, parents can ensure their child receives the best possible care, preserving their dental health and overall well-being. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can help maintain the function and appearance of children’s teeth, ensuring a healthy, confident smile for years to come.