EZ-Pedo Crowns
Baby (primary) teeth are the placeholders for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them. When a baby tooth is decayed or damaged, it might be necessary to put a crown on the tooth to keep it in place until the adult tooth is ready to come through.
Primary teeth are more porous than permanent teeth and decay can readily attack and destroy the tooth. Baby teeth are an important part of the child’s development because they aid in speech and eating. After an extensively decayed tooth has been repaired, it is often recommended that a crown (cap) be placed over the tooth as protection until the tooth naturally comes out.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns have been considered the standard of care for badly decayed primary teeth. They are strong and can withstand biting and chewing, and will rarely break or chip. The biggest drawback of the metallic crown is the esthetic concern. They can be highly visible and as your child ages, that can be an area of anxiety for your child.
White Zirconia Dental Crowns
White zirconia dental crowns (EZ-Pedo Crowns) are a great alternative for children. The white crown is metal-free and since it is colored like a natural tooth, it is the most esthetically pleasing option. They can blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth. Zirconia resembles the traditional porcelain dental crowns that have been used for years, but zirconia is far more durable. Since they are constructed of a solid monolithic zirconia ceramic, they do not chip, discolor, or break down over time. The crowns are biocompatible making them safe for the teeth and gums.
Zirconia crowns are pre-made, so they can be fitted and placed on the patient during one visit, instead of using a temporary crown until the permanent crown is made. They do not require dental impressions, which make the experience for the child more comfortable.
Crowns can be used to protect a cracked tooth, restore a tooth that has excessive decay, and to provide strength and protection against breakage. The EZ-Pedo Crowns can preserve the esthetics of your child’s smile. Taking care of your child’s teeth now will give them the best chance for healthy adult teeth.
Westchester Pediatric Dentistry has been specially trained to restore your child’s smile back to its natural beauty. Call our office in Westchester today to make an appointment to determine what the best option would be for your child. Dr. Christie Burnett and Dr. Deepa Sreenivasan are able to offer the best in pediatric dental care to your child.