Pediatric dental crowns are custom-made dental caps designed to cover and protect a child's damaged or extensively decayed tooth. These crowns are vital when traditional fillings are insufficient to restore the tooth's structural integrity. By providing a protective shell over the affected tooth, pediatric dental crowns preserve primary teeth, which are crucial for proper speech development, maintaining space for permanent teeth, and preventing tooth extraction. 

At Ceres Pediatric Dentistry, we use pediatric dental crowns to safeguard children’s oral health, promoting normal tooth function and ensuring confident and healthy smiles as they grow.  

The Pediatric Dental Crown Procedure 

The procedure begins with a thorough examination by our pediatric dentist in Ceres, CA. They assess the extent of damage or decay in the child's tooth and discuss the treatment plan with parents or caregivers.  

Once it's determined that a crown is necessary, the dentist will prepare the affected tooth. This typically involves removing any decayed or damaged portions of the tooth and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. A pulpotomy may be performed in cases where the tooth's nerve is affected.  

An impression or mold of the prepared tooth is taken. This impression is the basis for creating a custom-fit dental crown that perfectly matches the child's tooth.  

Depending on the child's specific needs, the dentist will choose an appropriate crown material. Stainless steel crowns are often used for back teeth due to their durability, while composite resin or zirconia crowns may be chosen for front teeth for aesthetic reasons.  

Once the custom crown is ready, it is placed over the prepared tooth. The dentist will ensure that it fits snugly and provides proper bite alignment. The crown is secured in place using dental cement. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the crown's comfort and functionality. The child's bite is carefully checked to ensure it aligns correctly. 

The Benefits of Pediatric Dental Crowns 

• Preserving Primary Teeth 

One of the primary benefits of pediatric dental crowns in Ceres, CA, is their ability to salvage and maintain primary teeth. These teeth are vital for proper speech development, chewing, and creating a pathway for the eruption of permanent teeth. By preserving primary teeth, crowns help children navigate their oral development with ease.  

• Preventing Tooth Loss 

Severely damaged or decayed primary teeth often face the prospect of extraction. Pediatric dental crowns prevent tooth loss, safeguarding the integrity of a child's dental arch and minimizing the potential for orthodontic issues as they grow.  

• Restoring Tooth Function 

Crowns restore the functionality of a compromised tooth, allowing children to chew, speak, and smile comfortably. This ensures they can maintain a healthy diet and engage socially without discomfort or self-consciousness.  

Pediatric dental crowns support children's dental health, offering many benefits beyond mere restoration. To learn more about the benefits of pediatric dental crowns, visit Ceres Pediatric Dentistry at 2561 3rd St., Suite A, Ceres, CA 95307, or call (209) 538-9298.