A dental crown, often referred to as a "cap," is a protective cover placed over a damaged or decayed tooth. In children, cap placement (or crown placement) is common for a few specific reasons, particularly when a tooth is too damaged to support a filling. Here’s an overview of why and how crowns are placed on children's teeth: Reasons for Placing a Cap on a Child’s Tooth Severe Decay: When a cavity is too large and a filling may not be enough, a crown can provide the necessary support and protection for the remaining tooth structure. Damage from Trauma: If a child’s tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken from an injury, a crown can protect it and restore its function. Weak or Developmentally Defective Teeth: Some children may have weaker teeth due to developmental issues or genetic conditions. A crown can add strength and prevent future problems. After a Root Canal: When a child has had a root canal on a primary (baby) tooth, a crown is often used to protect the treated tooth until it naturally falls out. Types of Crowns for Kids’ Teeth Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs): These are the most common for primary teeth because they are durable, cost-effective, and generally quick to place. They are typically used on back (posterior) teeth and are silver in color, which is less of an aesthetic concern in molars. Composite Strip Crowns: These are tooth-colored and blend in with natural teeth, making them ideal for front (anterior) teeth. They are made of a composite resin that is shaped to match the child's natural tooth color. Zirconia Crowns: These crowns are also tooth-colored but are much stronger than composite crowns, so they can withstand more wear and tear. Zirconia crowns are popular for both front and back teeth because of their strength and natural appearance, though they tend to be more costly. The Procedure Preparation: The dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia to prevent discomfort. The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is then removed, and the remaining tooth is shaped to hold the crown securely. Fitting the Crown: Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist will select the correct size and shape of the crown to fit over the tooth. The crown is then cemented onto the tooth, covering it entirely to protect it from future decay or damage. Polishing and Finishing: The dentist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure the child’s bite feels comfortable with the crown in place. The crown is polished for a smooth finish. Aftercare Tips for Dental Crowns Good Oral Hygiene: Encourage brushing twice daily and flossing to prevent cavities in surrounding teeth. Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: These can dislodge or damage the crown, especially for composite and stainless steel types.

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure performed to save a tooth that has been badly infected or decayed. The treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), cleaning and disinfecting the interior, and then sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens during a root canal: 1. Diagnosis Your dentist or endodontist will take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and check the condition of the surrounding bone. 2. Anesthesia Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding areas. This ensures that the patient feels minimal discomfort during the procedure. 3. Removing the Pulp After anesthesia, the dentist creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or damaged pulp tissue is then carefully removed using specialized dental tools. 4. Cleaning and Disinfection Once the pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth, including the root canals, is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped. This helps remove any remaining bacteria and prevents further infection. 5. Filling the Canals After cleaning, the empty root canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material seals the space to prevent bacteria from re-entering. The access hole created in the tooth is temporarily sealed until a permanent restoration is placed. 6. Restoration After the root canal is completed, the tooth will need to be restored. Most of the time, this involves placing a dental crown over the tooth to protect it and restore its full function, as the tooth may become more brittle after treatment. 7. Aftercare Some discomfort or mild pain can be expected for a few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended, and following your dentist’s post-treatment instructions is important for proper healing. Why Might You Need a Root Canal? Deep Decay: When a cavity reaches the pulp of the tooth. Cracked or Chipped Tooth: If a tooth is cracked or chipped deeply enough to expose the pulp. Trauma: A traumatic injury that affects the tooth’s nerve. Repeated Dental Procedures: Multiple procedures on the same tooth can irritate the pulp, causing inflammation. Benefits of a Root Canal It saves the natural tooth. It eliminates pain and infection. It prevents the need for extraction and further dental procedures.