Dentist’s Ultimate Guide: Gentle Dental Crowns for Kids
At Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental, we always prioritize minimally invasive, conservative treatments whenever possible. However, for larger cavities or more extensive decay, Dr. Adam Hoina may recommend a dental crown to protect and restore your child’s tooth. We tailor our approach based on your child’s age, oral development, level of decay, location of the tooth, and overall oral health needs.
Our practice in Clemmons offers several crown options, including stainless steel crowns and NuSmile zirconia crowns, ensuring the best fit for both function and aesthetics.
We believe in personalized care, and our team will walk you through each option, making sure you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. Whether your child needs a durable solution or a more aesthetic option, our office in Clemmons, NC provides crowns that not only protect but also maintain the natural look of your child’s smile.
What is a crown?
Each tooth is made up of both visible and hidden parts that extend into the jawbone. The crown is the white part of the tooth that shows when your child smiles. While the enamel covering the tooth’s crown is the strongest substance in the body—stronger even than bone—it is not indestructible. Damage can occur due to inconsistent or inadequate brushing and flossing, decay, trauma, or even wear from grinding. As these factors weaken the outer enamel, they can cause the damage to progress deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the innermost pulp tissue. At this stage, the tooth’s structure and overall health are at risk. In such cases, Dr. Hoina may recommend replacing the natural crown with a durable option, such as stainless steel or NuSmile zirconia. These crowns restore the tooth’s appearance and provide long-lasting support for healthy function.
Are Crowns Just for Decay?
Crowns are a versatile solution that address both chronic issues like decay and acute damage, such as fractures from trauma. In some cases, a minor chip or fracture can worsen over time if left untreated, leading to the need for a crown. At Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental, we prioritize conservative treatments and make every effort to intervene early with options like Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), P11-4 Peptide, or fillings before the need for a crown arises. However, when these interventions are not enough to restore the tooth’s strength, Dr. Hoina may recommend a dental crown. For example, a cavity that is too large for a filling can leave the tooth vulnerable to further damage. A crown ensures the tooth has the strength and structure it needs to function properly and last long-term.
How do you place crowns?
At Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental, we value your family’s time. That’s why Dr. Hoina makes it possible to complete most crowns in just one visit! During the appointment, he carefully prepares the tooth by removing any damaged areas and reshaping it for a perfect crown fit. Once the tooth is ready, we place the selected crown immediately, with no need for a temporary crown. Dr. Hoina ensures the crown fits securely and naturally before permanently bonding it to the tooth. This efficient process helps your child get out of pain, eat comfortably, and return to normal activities as quickly as possible.
How long do crowns last?
They can last for several years as long as your child maintains good brushing and flossing habits at home and attends regular checkups at Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental. If your child experiences new or persistent tooth pain, we’re just a call or text away at 336-999-0123. Conveniently located on the border of Winston-Salem and Clemmons, NC, we offer after-hours appointments to keep little smiles glowing year-round.
