Restorative Dentistry
If your child needs restorative treatment in the form of a filling or crown, our doctors and their team will create a custom treatment plan for your child and review all options with you before treatment begins. We believe a conservative approach to children’s dentistry is usually the best course of action.
Fillings are placed in the tooth following decay removal to preserve natural tooth structure. Nowadays most fillings are made of a composite resin that is matched to your child’s natural tooth color.
Crowns can be made of many different materials depending on where in your child’s mouth they are to be used. Stainless steel, resin, and zirconia are all durable choices and require very similar preparations.
Why Does My Child Need a Crown?
Sometimes an area of decay is too large for a filling or the decay has compromised the whole side of a tooth, so there is not enough tooth structure to support a filling. If your child has an accident that results in a heavily damaged tooth or if your child is at high risk for developing cavities, the doctor may decide it’s best to preserve the entire remaining structure.
If you are concerned that your child needs a crown, our doctors and their team are happy to answer all your questions.
Post OP – Crown
Your child has received a crown. Crowns can become dislodged or get cavities around or below the margins. This can be prevented with proper home care and good eating habits.
Daily brushing and flossing is essential to prevent new decay.
Avoid sticky and hard foods such as caramels, taffy, bubblegum and hard candies.
Sensitivity, swelling or irritation at the gumline where the crown is placed is normal. The gums might bleed a little during flossing. Salt water rinses may decrease these symptoms.
Soft foods are advised for the rest of the day.
If your child complains of pain or discomfort as the anesthetic wears off, you may alleviate the symptoms with Motrin or Tylenol.
If you have any questions, please call us at (916) 435-9100.