Pediatric Dental Extractions vs. Crowns for Damaged Teeth
At Cheng Crowns, we know that making decisions about your child’s dental health can be tough to navigate, especially when you’re faced with options like extractions or dental crowns. Both treatments for damaged or decayed teeth serve an important purpose in treating pain and infection, but they have different benefits, considerations, and long-term impacts on your child’s smile. Understanding when each option is appropriate ensures the best outcome for your child’s teeth. We’ll discuss the differences between pediatric dental extractions and crowns, helping you make an informed choice that supports your child’s oral health and development.
What Are Pediatric Dental Extractions?
An extraction is the removal of a child’s entire tooth. In most cases, this is done if there is an abscess or infection under the tooth, or if a cavity is so large that it would not support a pediatric crown. Once a cavity reaches this point, pain and infection can spread through the nerves into the jawbone and damage the adult tooth before it ever reaches the surface. Removing the tooth in these cases has a better outcome for the adult teeth yet to erupt, as decay can damage their appearance when they grow in. Extractions are also common for orthodontic reasons or in cases of overcrowding.
What Are Pediatric Dental Crowns?
A pediatric crown is a cap that covers the entire surface of the tooth. For children, they are placed with the expectation that they will last until the baby tooth falls out, and protect the channel through which the adult teeth grow. Cheng Crowns offers durable and aesthetic crown options, including classic resin-veneered stainless steel and zirconia, tailored to your child’s needs. Our classic line of crowns for children features a stainless-steel base and a resin facing, providing durable, color-stable, and crimpable pediatric crowns. Zirconia has a more natural tooth appearance and withstands wear and tear well, making it a more suitable option for younger patients.
When Is a Crown the Better Option?
Pediatric crowns are generally the preferred option over an extraction. In an extraction, removing the source of infection is appropriate due to the risks of that infection spreading into the jaw bone. Preserving the natural tooth structure of baby teeth by using a crown avoids other problems that may occur after an extraction, such as misalignment of the remaining teeth. A crown holds its space, making sure that the surrounding adult teeth continue to grow in as intended.
When deciding between a pediatric crown and an extraction, it’s important to weigh the unique needs of your child’s dental health and the guidance of their dentist. While extractions may be necessary in cases of severe infection or unrepairable damage, crowns are often the preferred choice for preserving bone structure and ensuring proper oral development.
By maintaining healthy dental habits and scheduling regular dental visits, you can reduce the likelihood of your child needing these treatments. Every child’s situation is different, so consulting with a trusted pediatric dentist is the best way to determine the right course of action for a growing smile.
Cheng Crowns’ Legacy of Excellence
Cheng Crowns has been in the business of providing high-quality aesthetic alternatives to silver caps since 1987. Trusted by the best dentists, we stand behind our promise to provide durable and pleasing pediatric crowns. Read our testimonials to see how Cheng Crowns breaks the industry mold and why so many dentists trust us to supply their patients with products that truly make an impact.
Resources
Why A Kid’s Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary
Treating Tooth Decay, AAPD Pediatric Oral Health Research & Policy Center