This week, Dr. Jon shared his knowledge on an important topic many parents may wonder about: Why is a dental crown sometimes recommended for children instead of a simple filling? Dr. Jon explores the reasons why a crown might be the optimal choice for certain dental situations, even if it isn’t the obvious option at first glance.
Longevity of Treatment
Dr. Jon emphasizes that one of the prime considerations in choosing a crown over a filling is the longevity of the treatment. For young children, aged three to five years, the teeth that receive treatment can be in place until they are as old as thirteen. He explains that while white fillings might seem like the better option due to their aesthetics, they often do not last as long as crowns. This means that a filling might need to be redone later, causing further inconvenience and possibly more sedation or anesthesia.
Cost-Effectiveness
Another crucial factor is cost-effectiveness. Dr. Jon underscores that redoing a filling can get quite costly. In cases where children undergo dental procedures under IV sedation or general anesthesia, it’s much more economical to choose a treatment that is less likely to need retreatment. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, doing the most definitive treatment—like a dental crown—right from the start can avoid future costs and the complexities of further sedation.
Optimal for Higher Risk or Younger Patients
Additionally, Dr. Jon points out that children with a high caries risk or those who are particularly young benefit the most from crowns. It’s a strategy aimed at ensuring the best long-term oral health. Given their age and susceptibility to dental issues, a crown offers the opportunity for a durable solution that requires less maintenance and reduces the likelihood of the child going through anxiety or discomfort from repeat treatments.
What’s Best for Your Child
At the heart of the matter, Dr. Jon explains that pediatric dentists always pursue what’s best for your child’s oral and mental well-being. The decision to use a crown instead of a filling is rooted in ensuring extended longevity, fewer repeat treatments, and overall enhanced health outcomes for the child. Here at PDAO, the focus is always on providing the best care tailored to each child’s unique needs. Dr. Jon and his team are committed to making choices that might not always be the most visibly clear but are in the best long-term interest of your child!
Find More Resources
For more educational videos and resources that can help keep your child’s smile happy and healthy, check out our YouTube Channel! Make sure you subscribe and click the bell to receive notifications when we drop our latest videos!
