What to Expect After My Child Gets a Dental Crown

A lot of parents get surprised when we recommend a baby root canal. 

"That baby tooth is going to fall out anyway. Do we really need to go through all this trouble?” they often ask us. 

And, the answer is always the same: Absolutely! 

Baby teeth play an essential role in the development of their jaws and adult teeth and we need to do everything we can to avoid premature loss. So, while a pediatric dental crown may sound a bit scary, here's why your child needs it and what to expect after the procedure. 

Why a Child May Need a Pediatric Dental Crown

If a child has severe tooth decay, a simple filling may not be enough to restore the tooth. If that's the case for your kid, Dr. Laura Greenwald will likely recommend a dental crown. 

The same stays true if a child has fractured or broken a tooth due to a fall or accident.

Some children may have developmental problems that affect their teeth, such as enamel hypoplasia. These conditions can make teeth weaker and more prone to decay, in which case a pediatric dental crown may be necessary to protect them.

What to Expect After My Child Got a Dental Crown? 

If you ever had a dental treatment that required a dental crown, you may remember the discomfort that followed. Naturally, you want to know if your child will experience the same pain and discomfort. 

Here's what you need to know. 

• Yes, There Will Be Some Discomfort: Some discomfort, sensitivity, and minor pain around the tooth are to be expected, especially in the first few days after the treatment. This is quite normal and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

• Sensitivity to Temperature: The crowned tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few days. Avoid giving your child foods and beverages that are too cold or too hot. 

• Difficulty Eating: Eating might be a little challenging for the first few days. You can help your little one by offering them soft and nutritious foods like scrambled eggs, yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies. 

• It Will Take Some Time to Adjust to the Crown: The crown may feel odd or bulky in the child's mouth at first. This feeling should go away after a few days as the child gets used to the new crown.

• Pay Attention to Their Oral Hygiene: Make sure that your child maintains their regular oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing daily will maintain the health of the crown and surrounding teeth.

• Don't Skip Their Follow-Up Visits: Make sure to honor the follow-up visit, even if your child seems perfectly fine. The dentist will want to ensure that the crown is fitting properly and that there aren't any complications. 

Treat Their Little Teeth at All Kids Dentistry 

If your child is dealing with a toothache or if you are just looking for a caring pediatric dentist in Valencia, CA, All Kids Dentistry is here to help. 

Get in touch with us to book your little one's appointment with Dr. Laura Greenwald.