Do Dental Crowns Hurt Kids? What to Expect Before, During, and After

When it comes to pediatric dental care, parents often have many questions and concerns, especially regarding procedures like dental crowns. At Small Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that the thought of your child undergoing a dental procedure can be daunting. Our goal is to ensure that both you and your child are well-informed and comfortable with every step of the process. 

In this blog, we will address the common question: "Do dental crowns hurt kids?" We'll walk you through what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, so you can feel confident in the care your child receives.

Understanding Dental Crowns for Kids

So, do dental crowns hurt kids? The answer is “no.” In fact, a crown can help relieve any pain or discomfort that your child may be experiencing due to a deep cavity, damaged tooth, or even a tooth infection.

Dental crowns are a common solution for restoring a tooth that is damaged or decayed. In children, these crowns are typically used to preserve primary teeth until they naturally fall out. Here’s what you need to know:

• Purpose: Crowns protect weak teeth from further damage, ensuring your child's oral health is maintained.
• Materials: Pediatric crowns for baby teeth are usually made of stainless steel, which is durable and safe for children. Tooth-colored ceramic crowns are also an option for adult teeth.
• Procedure: The process involves cleaning the tooth, shaping it, and then placing the crown over it.

Understanding these basics can help alleviate any anxiety you or your child might have about the procedure.

Preparing Your Child for the Procedure

Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth experience for your child. Here are some tips to help prepare your child:

• Discuss the Procedure: Explain to your child what will happen in simple terms. Use positive language to describe the benefits of the crown.
• Visit the Dentist: Schedule a pre-appointment visit to familiarize your child with the dental office and staff.
• Comfort Items: Allow your child to bring a favorite toy or blanket to the appointment for added comfort.

By preparing your child, you can help reduce their anxiety and make the experience more positive.

What Happens During the Procedure?

During the dental crown procedure, your child will be in the care of skilled professionals who prioritize their comfort and safety. Here’s what to expect:

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area, ensuring your child feels no pain during the procedure.
• Placement: The dentist trim your child’s tooth to remove damaged material, then carefully place a stainless steel crown over the prepared tooth, checking the fit and comfort.
• Duration: The procedure is typically quick for stainless steel crowns and takes just one visit.

If your child is getting a tooth-colored crown, the process is similar. However, it will take at least two visits over a period of several weeks. After your little one’s tooth is trimmed, their dentist will send the impression to a dental lab where their permanent crown will be made. They’ll get a temporary crown to wear until they can come back for the permanent crown. 

Post-Procedure Care and Expectations

After the crown is placed, it’s important to follow post-procedure care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some tips:

• Soreness: It’s normal for your child to experience mild soreness, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by your dentist.
• Diet: Encourage your child to eat soft foods for the first few days to avoid discomfort and ensure the crown fully bonds to their tooth.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep the crowned tooth healthy.

By following these guidelines, your child will quickly adjust to their new crown and continue to enjoy a healthy smile.

Schedule Your Child’s Appointment in Garden City, NY

At Small Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing gentle and compassionate dental care for your child. If you have concerns about dental crowns or any other pediatric dental services, don’t hesitate to reach out. We invite families in Garden City, NY, and surrounding areas to contact us at (516) 324-8047 to schedule an appointment. Let us help your child maintain a happy, healthy smile!