5 Signs Your Child Might Need a Dental Crown

Baby dental crowns may sound intimidating, but they’re nothing to worry about. These restorations are placed painlessly and precisely by pediatric dentists. Suspect your little one needs a dental crown in San Pedro, California? Talk to Groat Pediatric Dentistry for high-quality dental crown services. Under the care of Dr. Christopher Groat, you can rest assured that the procedure achieves the best possible outcomes. 

How do I know my child needs dental crowns?

Not every baby needs a dental crown. However, this pediatric restorative procedure may be necessary to save baby teeth from premature loss. Watch out for the following signs to determine whether your child needs a dental crown.

1. Large cavities

Dental fillings are the go-to procedure for minor cavities. A filling goes into the tooth to repair the damage and prevent it from progressing. Unfortunately, a filling may not be sufficient for severe cavities. Unlike a filling, a dental crown covers the entire tooth, like a helmet, restoring its structure to rebuild its strength, function, and appearance. 

There’s a misconception that baby teeth don’t matter, so restoration isn’t necessary. Although baby teeth will eventually fall out, they are crucial for the healthy development of permanent teeth. Losing them too early to decay can result in misalignment issues later in life. 

2. Cracked or fractured tooth

Although teeth are the hardest part of the body, they are susceptible to breakage. Your child can damage their tooth from sports injuries, falls, or biting something hard. Instead of removing the tooth, the dentist can save it by covering it with a crown. A dental crown repairs the damage and prevents further breakage. After crowning the tooth, your child can enjoy meals and speak without pain or sensitivity.

3. After a root canal 

Dr. Groat tries to save your child’s teeth whenever possible. If the tooth is severely damaged or infected, a root canal (pulpectomy or pulpotomy) may be needed to remove the source of infection. Unlike adult root canals, baby tooth root canals are usually quicker and more straightforward and are completed in a single visit. However, the procedure may leave the tooth structurally weakened. The dentist can use a dental crown to restore the strength of the tooth and improve its function.

4. Worn-down enamel

Chronic teeth grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion can wear down the enamel over time. Unfortunately, this weakens the tooth and makes it vulnerable to sensitivity and decay. A dental crown rebuilds the tooth and protects it from further damage. 

5. Aesthetic concerns

It’s a common misconception that beautiful smiles are just for teens and adults—children deserve to feel confident about their smiles, too! So, if your little one feels self-conscious because of a discolored, damaged, or misshapen tooth, a dental crown can help. With a simple, child-friendly solution, we can restore their tooth’s appearance and give them the confidence to smile and speak without limitations.

Pediatric dental crowns in San Pedro, CA

A dental crown keeps your child’s smile strong, healthy, and beautiful. To learn more about baby dental crowns, consult your pediatric dentist in San Diego. Call (310) 832-5133 or book an online appointment with Groat Pediatric Dentistry.

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