What Are Dental Crowns?
If one tooth is damaged or worn down, it can be protected with a crown. Also known as a cap, crowns are made custom to fit over the needed tooth and colored to blend with your child's natural teeth for a seamless finish. At First Class Pediatric Dentistry in Snellville, GA, a dental crown may be used to treat or limit damage from decay, protect a weak tooth, restore a cracked tooth, or cover a discolored tooth. This type of restoration can help preserve the structure of the tooth for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Adesegun Tewogbade offers crowns for both primary and permanent teeth. Schedule an appointment with Dr. T to learn about how a dental crown can strengthen or repair a damaged tooth while also boosting the total health of your child's smile.
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Who Needs Dental Crowns?
A crown may be needed in several different ways. It can be placed to protect a decaying tooth to prevent it from chipping or it may hold parts of a tooth together that have already cracked. Crowns can also cover a worn-down or loose tooth. They may be utilized to strengthen a decayed tooth that cannot hold a normal filling, serve as part of a dental bridge, or cover discolored or misshapen teeth. Crowns may be glued over the tooth or connected to a dental implant. In some cases, your child may need restoration of a primary tooth. The material of the crown is chosen based on the location of the tooth. Metal or porcelain fused to metal (PFM) are typically stronger, which makes them better suited for the less visible molars and pre-molars. Ceramic or porcelain crowns are typically used on the front teeth and matched to the size, shape, and color of your child's natural teeth. Dr. T will discuss these options in-depth during the consultation with you and your child. He will help you make the best choice based on needs and budget.
The Dental Crown Technique
We offer stainless steel crowns and zirconia (tooth-colored) crowns, which are a one-appointment procedure and requires no impression of your child's teeth. Once the crown is ready, we will numb the area to be treated with a local anesthetic. After the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. T will prepare your child's tooth by removing debris and decay, then lightly file the enamel to make space for the dental crown. Once set, Dr. T will adjust the fit to ensure that your child's bite is correct.
Recovery After Dental Crowns
Once we place the dental crown, your child will be able to leave our office and continue with normal activities. Dr. T or a member of his team will educate you and your child how to care for the new crown, including foods to avoid and the best way to keep it clean. During regular examinations at First Class Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. T will assess your child's crown and adjust it for comfort. He will let you know when your child's crown needs to be replaced; however, with good care, it may last for many years. If your child encounters problems with the crown (if it becomes loose or falls out), contact our office immediately. Do not try to repair it or reattach it since this can cause a bad fit or infection.
Custom Crowns for your Child
A damaged or missing tooth may be easily treated with a dental crown at First Class Pediatric Dentistry. Talk to Dr. T about how a crown can shield your child's tooth from further damage and help maintain the health of the other teeth. With different materials to match your needs, a custom matching crown can give your child a beautiful smile. Our professional team has extensive experience in tooth restoration to ensure your child receives the best treatment possible. Contact our dental office in Snellville, GA to schedule an appointment with Dr. T.