If your pediatric dentist just informed your child that they need a dental crown, either because they have an overly damaged tooth or need to have a root canal, it’s natural to have questions. Your little one might be worried about their upcoming procedure, and understanding more about what to anticipate can help you set up appropriate expectations to alleviate their anxiety.
Many patients want to know if getting a dental crown hurts. Continue reading to learn more about this so you and your child can enjoy some peace of mind before their appointment.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a prosthetic placed over a damaged tooth to shield it from additional damage. At the same time, it preserves the tooth’s remaining structure so that it can be used functionally to speak and chew. This allows your pediatric dentist to preserve your kid’s natural teeth in circumstances that might otherwise require extraction and replacement.
Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Crown?
It’s not uncommon for children to fear dental appointments, especially if there’s a major procedure involved. Giving your little one a realistic idea of what to expect can calm their nerves and help them feel relaxed throughout their visit.
The process can take a couple of appointments to complete from start to finish. Before getting started, your child’s dentist will apply an anesthetic to ensure that they are comfortable the entire time. If your kid has a hard time sitting still or has a phobia, then they might also administer a sedative to be able to complete the procedure. Then, they’ll make digital impressions of their teeth to send to a laboratory that will create their restoration. They’ll also remove a thin layer of enamel to ensure their dental crown fits correctly.
Next, they’ll fit your child with a temporary cap to wear in the meantime, until the permanent one is delivered. Once it arrives, they’ll arrange a second appointment to bond it in place. This visit often doesn’t require an anesthetic, but if your child is scared, their dentist may offer an appropriate sedative.
Does Dental Crown Recovery Hurt?
You can expect your kid to have some mild sensitivity in the affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue, but it typically fades relatively quickly. However, if they’re showing signs or letting you know they’re feeling pain that lasts more than a week, contact your pediatric dentist. They may need to ensure the dental crown is fitting properly so your little one can recover as intended.
Your provider knows that many children are scared of major procedures and will work with you to help your child feel as calm and relaxed as possible!
About the Practice
At Coral Kids Dentistry & Braces, you and your family benefit from a team of skilled dentists who work together to offer a full array of services at one convenient location. They have decades of combined experience, so they can address everything from basic checkups to more complex treatments and restorations. They use state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while increasing the accuracy of their treatment results. If your child has an injured tooth that needs attention, you can request an appointment on the website or call (905) 684-5437.