When it comes to restoring damaged teeth in little mouths, parents often have questions about the best approach. While fillings work for minor cavities, sometimes your child might need something more robust. Pediatric dental crowns in Wichita Falls offer a durable solution for severely damaged teeth—but how do you know when they’re truly necessary?
Common Reasons Children Need Dental Crowns
- Extensive Decay: When cavities are too large for a standard filling to repair effectively.
- Fractured or Broken Teeth: Crowns can restore teeth damaged from injuries or accidents.
- After Root Canal Therapy: Teeth that have undergone pulp treatment often need crowns for protection.
- Developmental Defects: Some children have teeth with natural enamel defects that benefit from crown coverage.
- Severe Wear: Children who grind their teeth may need crowns to restore proper function.
Types of Pediatric Dental Crowns Available in Wichita Falls
Not all dental crowns are created equal, especially when it comes to children’s dentistry. At our pediatric dental practice, we offer several options to meet your child’s specific needs:
Stainless Steel Crowns
These are often the go-to choice for posterior baby teeth. They’re durable, cost-effective, and can last until the natural tooth falls out. While not the most aesthetically pleasing option, they provide excellent function where appearance isn’t the primary concern.
White Zirconia Crowns
For front teeth or when aesthetics matter, white crowns made from zirconia offer an excellent combination of strength and natural appearance. Many Wichita Falls families prefer these for their children’s visible teeth.
Composite Crowns
These tooth-colored crowns can be another option for front teeth, though they may not be as durable as other choices for very active children.
The Pediatric Crown Procedure: What Parents in Wichita Falls Should Expect
Getting a crown placed is typically a single-visit procedure at our pediatric dental office. First, we’ll ensure your child is comfortable, often using gentle sedation techniques if needed. The dentist will remove damaged portions of the tooth and shape it to properly hold the crown. Next, we’ll fit and cement the crown into place, making sure it feels comfortable when your child bites down.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, dental crowns for primary teeth help maintain proper spacing for permanent teeth and support healthy jaw development—critical factors for your child’s long-term oral health.
At our practice in Wichita Falls, we understand that dental procedures can feel overwhelming for both children and parents. That’s why we take extra care to explain each step, answer all your questions, and ensure your child feels safe and comfortable throughout the process.
Pediatric dental crowns are an investment in your child’s oral health. They not only restore function and appearance but also help maintain space for permanent teeth and support proper chewing and speech development. If you’re wondering whether your child might benefit from a dental crown, schedule a consultation with our experienced Wichita Falls pediatric dental team today.
Remember, preserving baby teeth until they’re ready to fall out naturally is important for your child’s dental development. With proper care, crowns can help damaged teeth fulfill their important role in your child’s growing smile!