4 Reasons to Choose a Metal-Free Dental Crown for Your Child

When your child’s pediatric dentist states that your little one has a decayed or damaged tooth, you may wonder how they plan to address it. Will they need a dental filling? Is it so bad that the tooth needs to be extracted? In certain situations, the infection may be too severe for a filling to suffice but not enough to warrant a root canal or tooth extraction. In these instances, it may be that a dental crown will be enough. In the past, traditional amalgam was the only way to protect these teeth; however, nowadays, children, just like adults, want a less noticeable option. Here are four reasons to choose a metal-free dental crown to repair your child’s smile.

Your Child is Less Likely to Experience Sensitivity

Oftentimes, when metal is used inside the mouth, it can cause discomfort when a person eats or drinks anything hot or cold. If your child likes to enjoy a cold glass of water after spending time outside or an ice cream cone as a special treat, they might cringe in pain because the metal inside their mouth serves as a conductor, sending the temperature change directly to the nerve.

With a metal-free crown, though, it consists of biocompatible materials that do not result in tooth sensitivity, making it possible for your little one to enjoy their favorite hot and cold treats without succumbing to pain.

They’re Less Likely to Develop Decay

Although they are designed to protect against decay, metal is known to expand over time. As a result, it can cause bacteria and other harmful particles to spread beneath the restoration and create decay.

Metal expands when it’s exposed to hot and cold temperatures (another negative effect of metal and temperature differences).

Metal-free dental crowns, however, do not expand. This allows the vulnerable tooth to remain protected against future reinfection or damage so that the tooth can properly heal and strengthen over time.

They’re Better for Oral and Overall Health

Metal is not meant to live inside the mouth. Many of the most commonly used metal dental fixtures contain mercury, which is found to be highly toxic over time. It’s also possible that metal can cause individuals to experience severe allergies.

Children do not need to worry about additional illnesses because of something that exists inside their mouth. If you want to keep them as healthy as possible, stay away from any metals and instead, ask their pediatric dentist about having a metal-free crown put into place.

They Allow for a More Natural Appearance

Some people may not think that children need to worry about their appearance, but the truth is that they do. When surrounded by their peers daily, they can suffer embarrassment and ridicule. If living with a metal crown, the fear of showing their smile intensifies, but a metal-free dental crown can do the opposite.

When wearing a more natural-looking restoration, not only will their smile remain protected, but they’ll avoid unpleasant interactions with their peers and instead feel more confident showing off their smile.

Let your child embrace a beautiful, natural look with the help of a metal-free crown. When you see how happy they are, you’ll be glad you made the right choice.

About the Author
Dr. Allen Pearson opened Wylie Children’s Dentistry in 2003 and has more than 20 years of experience as a board-certified pediatric dentist. He earned his dental degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry and completed a one-year General Practice Residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He then earned his Pediatric Dental Specialty Certificate. He and his team are committed to providing exceptional care to young patients, giving them the best opportunity to enjoy healthier smiles as they grow into adulthood. If you have a child who needs a dental crown but is self-conscious about their appearance, visit our website or call (972) 429-7070 to schedule an appointment.