Your child’s baby teeth, also called primary teeth, are crucial to their early oral development. They help your child chew, speak and smile properly and act as placeholders for their permanent teeth. When these teeth develop severe decay or are damaged, it is essential to restore them to maintain proper oral health. In many cases, a simple filling is not enough to repair the tooth. That is when a baby tooth crown in Dearborn, Michigan, may be recommended to protect and strengthen your child’s smile.
What Are Baby Tooth Crowns?
Baby tooth crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over a primary tooth to restore its shape, size, strength and appearance. They are most commonly used when a tooth has been extensively decayed, fractured or weakened after a pulpotomy procedure. Stainless steel crowns are the most frequently used type of crown for baby teeth because they are durable, cost-effective and highly successful in young patients, however, tooth-colored crowns are also available.
Crowns for baby teeth are designed to last until the tooth naturally falls out to make room for the adult tooth. They provide complete coverage, ensuring the tooth remains protected from further decay or damage during its remaining lifespan.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Crowns
Choosing a stainless steel crown for your child offers several important benefits:
- Exceptional durability: Stainless steel crowns are strong enough to withstand the forces of chewing and can last for several years.
- Cost-effectiveness: They are more affordable than many other restorative options.
- Full protection: Crowns cover the entire tooth, helping to prevent future cavities or fractures.
- Minimal sensitivity: Children typically experience little to no tooth sensitivity following treatment.
- Reliable success: Stainless steel crowns have a higher success rate than fillings, especially in children younger than age 4.
- Support for space maintainers: Crowns can serve as anchors for devices that maintain proper space for developing adult teeth.
When Are Baby Tooth Crowns Recommended?
Your child may need a crown if they have large cavities that cannot be restored with a filling, if they have undergone a pulpotomy or if they have a fractured tooth that requires extra protection. Our dentist will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth and recommend the best course of action to preserve their oral health and development.
Caring for Crowns on Baby Teeth
Helping your child maintain a healthy smile after crown placement is essential. Regular brushing, flossing and routine dental visits are important to monitor the crown and ensure it stays in good condition. Avoiding sticky or very hard foods can also help prolong the life of the crown and keep your child’s smile healthy.
Dr. Haytham Fares is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to help your child enjoy a strong, beautiful smile. If you would like to learn more about baby tooth dental crowns in Dearborn, Michigan, or schedule an appointment with our dentist, we invite you to contact our office at 313-561-7070 today.