Some children are more self-conscious than others. A simple dental procedure such as a cavity filling can leave some children feeling embarrassed. When children face more extensive procedures – such as root canals, periodontal surgery, and crowns – their self-esteem can really take a hit. They will naturally have fears about the procedure, as well. But with the right approach, you can boost your child's confidence throughout the ordeal.
Before Treatment: Discussion is Key
It is always nice to go to the dentist for a checkup and find out that you do not need any dental work. This means your teeth are in good condition and free of decay; unfortunately this is not always the case. If your dentist tells you there is a cavity on a tooth and that you need a dental crown for it, you might wonder why. Dental crowns are not typically used to fix cavities, but there are times when they are.
Children typically are not as adamant about taking care of their teeth and gums as adults are, so it is vital to keep your kid's oral health in check. Even if your child still has his baby teeth, teaching him good dental health habits will be beneficial to his overall well-being. You should first learn about common dental problems that affect children and what you can do to prevent them.
If you've recently been informed you'll need a root canal to save your tooth, you may be tempted to simply have this tooth extracted -- particularly if you're dealing with a wisdom tooth or molar that won't be greatly missed. However, extracting a salvageable tooth can lead to long-term dental and health consequences. How can you determine whether an extraction or root canal is the right choice? Read on to learn more about the differing effects of these treatments to help you make the right decision for your situation.
Dental crowns are caps that are placed over a compromised tooth in order to restore its shape, size, strength, appearance and overall condition. Once you get a crown fitted, you can expect it to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, as long as the crown as properly installed and you have made a genuine effort to maintain your dental health. Unfortunately, dental crowns are still subject to cavities, fractures and infections.
