Cosmetic dentistry, including pediatric crowns, can dramatically help restore a child’s smile and confidence. At Merhoff Pediatric Dentistry in Winston-Salem, NC, the team is equipped with state-of-the-art tools and a compassionate approach to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible for both the child and their family. Whether addressing early childhood cavities, performing preventive procedures like sealants, or selecting the right type of pediatric crown for restorative work, the focus is always on providing excellent care tailored to the unique needs of young patients.
Why Would a Child Need a Crown?
A common reason children may need crowns is early childhood caries or tooth decay, which can develop as early as 18 months. These cavities are a significant problem, especially in the upper incisors (front teeth) and first molars. A crown may be recommended when a cavity is too large for a traditional filling or if the tooth’s structure is weakened. At Merhoff Pediatric Dentistry, the focus is on preserving the child’s teeth whenever possible. Crowns offer an excellent way to save teeth that are too damaged for other forms of treatment.
Types of Pediatric Dental Crowns
The practice offers several types of crowns, each suited to different needs and preferences.
- Stainless Steel Crowns: These have been a durable and widely used option in pediatric dentistry for decades. While they don’t blend in with existing teeth, they are highly effective for molars and other non-visible teeth.
- Zirconia Crowns: A more aesthetic option, zirconia crowns blend seamlessly with a child’s natural teeth. These white crowns are an excellent choice for front teeth, offering strength and durability without compromising appearance.
- Bioflex Crowns: A newer, hybrid option that provides a balance between the aesthetic benefits of zirconia crowns and the durability of stainless steel. These crowns require less preparation and are faster to place, making them an efficient choice for both patients and practitioners.
The pediatric dentists at Merhoff & Associates Pediatric Dentistry note that Bioflex crowns allow them to tailor treatment to each child’s needs, ensuring functionality and a beautiful smile. Restoring front teeth, in particular, can profoundly impact a child’s confidence as they grow, particularly as they begin school or enter new social settings.
Restorative Procedures, Pediatric Crowns, and Tooth Preservation
It’s crucial to evaluate the extent of decay and the age of the tooth when planning restoration. Our pediatric dentists assess whether the tooth can be saved with a filling or if it requires more extensive work, such as a pulpotomy, which is essentially a baby tooth version of a root canal. The goal is to preserve the tooth’s vitality and avoid the need for extraction.
Pulpotomies involve removing the upper portion of the tooth’s nerve tissue and filling it with a medicated material before placing a crown on top. This procedure prevents further decay, relieves pain, and allows the child to maintain the tooth until it naturally falls out.
Additionally, we utilize the SOAN device, which provides local anesthesia during cosmetic procedures in a way that avoids the discomfort of traditional needles. This small, “non-scary” tool helps prevent post-operative complications like tongue or lip biting and makes procedures far more comfortable for young patients.
Sedation is an excellent option for children with multiple areas (or quadrants) of treatment needs, complex medical histories, or special health care needs, including nitrous oxide and general anesthesia.
Preventive Measures: Nutrition, Brushing, and Sealants
Beyond restorative treatments, prevention is a significant focus at Merhoff & Associates Pediatric Dentistry. Educating parents about proper nutrition and dental care is part of every visit. Sugary drinks, gummy vitamins, and sticky snacks are common culprits of early childhood caries. Parents are advised to limit these foods and ensure children brush thoroughly, especially after consuming anything sticky that can linger on teeth.
Sealants are another effective preventive measure. These are applied to the grooves of molars to protect them from decay. Sealants create a barrier over the enamel that removes food particles and plaque. We recommend sealants for permanent molars, which begin to emerge around age six, but they may also suggest them for baby molars if necessary.
High-Tech and Child-Centered Care at Merhoff Pediatric Dentistry
Our entire team focuses on making children feel at ease while receiving the highest quality care. The practice prides itself on creating a welcoming environment where every child feels comfortable. Restoring a child’s smile is more than just a dental procedure—it’s about building confidence and supporting overall well-being. With advanced materials like zirconia and Bioflex crowns, as well as comfortable procedures, we can offer children beautiful, functional smiles that can last until their permanent teeth come in. This, combined with their emphasis on preventive care and education, helps ensure that our young patients and their families can count on long-term dental health.