Germantown Pediatric Dental Center, LL logo

Our Blog

What to Expect After Your Child Gets a Dental Crown: A Guide for Parents

If you’re a parent, you know that taking care of your child’s dental health is important. You might have questions and concerns about dental crowns for kids, a common procedure. This blog will explain what you can expect after your child gets a dental crown.

Why Would a Dental Crown Be Necessary for a Child?

  • Severe Tooth Decay:Dental crowns become necessary when a child’s tooth is severely decayed and cannot be effectively restored with a filling. Decay that extends deep into the tooth may compromise its structural integrity, necessitating the protection and reinforcement provided by a crown.
  • Tooth Damage:Children are often active and prone to accidents that may result in tooth fractures or breaks. In such cases, a dental crown can restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function, preventing further damage and decay.
  • Pediatric Root Canal:A dental crown is commonly placed over the treated tooth to provide more strength and protection following a pediatric root canal procedure. This ensures the long-term success of the root canal treatment.
  • Cosmetic Reasons:Dental crowns can also serve cosmetic purposes for children with misshapen or discolored teeth. By covering imperfections, crowns can enhance the appearance of a child’s smile, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.

How Is a Dental Crown Procedure Performed for Children?

The process of administering a dental crown for children involves several steps to ensure a comfortable and effective treatment experience:

  • Initial Examination:Before proceeding with the crown placement, the pediatric dentist near you will carefully examine the tooth to evaluate its condition and decide if a crown is necessary.
  • Tooth Preparation:To accommodate the crown, the kid’s dentist near you will remove any dental decay, plague, or damage from the tooth and shape it to ensure a proper fit.
  • Impression Taking:A mold of the prepared tooth is then made to craft a custom crown that matches the size, shape, structure, and color of the natural tooth, blending seamlessly with the rest of the teeth.
  • Temporary Crown Placement:To keep the tooth protected and functioning normally while the permanent crown is being produced, a temporary crown may be inserted.
  • Final Crown Placement:Once the permanent dental crown is available, it is bonded securely onto the prepared tooth using dental cement, ensuring a durable and long-lasting restoration.

What Should You Expect During Recovery After a Child’s Dental Crown Procedure?

After your child undergoes a dental crown procedure, it’s natural to have questions about their recovery process. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Temporary Sensitivity:Your child may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold food items and mild discomfort around the treated tooth. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few days as the tooth adjusts to the new crown.
  • Mild Discomfort:Some children may experience mild soreness or discomfort in the area of the dental crown, especially when chewing or biting down. As their pediatric dentist recommends, this discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Adjustment Period:It may take some time for your child to adjust to the feeling of the dental crown in their mouth. Encourage them to eat softer foods and avoid chewing on hard objects during the initial recovery period to minimize any discomfort.

How Can You Help Your Child Manage Discomfort After a Dental Crown Procedure?

While discomfort following a dental crown procedure is usually mild and temporary, there are several steps you can take to help your child feel more comfortable:

  • Offer Soft Foods:In the days following the procedure, provide soft, easy-to-chew foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup to minimize discomfort while eating.
  • Encourage Hydration:Encourage your child to an adequate amount of water to upkeep hydration promote dental healing after their dental crown procedure.
  • Use Over-the-counter Pain Relievers:If your child is experiencing discomfort, you can offer over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as their pediatric dentist directs.
  • Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene:Remind your child to brush and floss gently around the dental crown to maintain oral hygiene without irritating the treated tooth or surrounding gums.
  • Provide Comforting Care:Offer your child plenty of love, support, and reassurance during their recovery period, and be available to address any concerns or questions they may have about their dental crown.

What Are the Best Practices for Caring for Your Child’s Dental Crown?

Effective care and regular maintenance play a crucial role in preserving the durability and success of your child’s dental crown. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene:Encourage your child for regular brushing and floss to remove dental plaque and food particles around the dental crown and prevent decay and gum disease.
  • Attend Regular Dental Check-ups:Schedule regular visits to Germantown Pediatric Dental Center, LLC, for professional cleanings and examinations to monitor the health of your child’s dental crown and address any issues or concerns promptly.
  • Avoid Chewing Hard Objects:Remind your child to avoid chewing on tough objects such as pens, pencils, ice, or candies. This can damage the dental crown and increase the fracture risk or dislodgement.
  • Protect the Crown During Sports:

If your child engages in contact sports or physical activities, it’s important to think about using a mouthguard to shield their dental crown from potential injury or trauma.

When to Reach Out to a Dentist Regarding Concerns with Your Child’s Dental Crown:

If you notice any of the following issues with your child’s dental crown, it’s important to contact your dentist in 20874:

  • Persistent pain or discomfort
  • Swelling or redness around the treated tooth
  • Loose or damaged crown

Ready to Ensure Your Child’s Dental Health? Schedule with Us Today!

Be sure to address your child’s dental health needs. Schedule an appointment with Germantown Pediatric Dental Center, LLC, today to ensure your child receives the best possible care. Remember, our pediatric dental center is here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to inquire about your child’s dental treatment at any time.

Conclusion

As a parent, you must be informed about your child’s dental health and any procedures they may undergo. By understanding what to expect following your child’s dental crown procedure and following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth dental recovery and long-lasting dental health for your child.

Office Hours:
  • Mon: 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Tue: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Wed: 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Thu: 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Fri: Emergencies only
  • Sat: Closed
  • Sun: Closed

Dr. Echandy sees patients at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital

Shady Grove Adventist Hospital
Phone: 240-826-6000
TTY#: 240-826-6405
Address: 9901 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850

Related Posts

Call Now Book Now
Click to listen highlighted text!