Parents often worry when their child has a cavity. The big question becomes: Is a filling enough, or does the tooth need a crown?
Families exploring restorative dentistry for children in Airdrie want clear explanations, not confusing dental terms.
This guide breaks down both options in a simple, helpful way.
What Happens When a Child Gets a Cavity?
Baby teeth may fall out, but they matter now. They guide adult teeth into place, help with speech, and allow proper chewing.
When decay develops, the tooth weakens. Treatment depends on how deep the cavity is and how much of the tooth is still healthy.
When Is a Filling the Right Choice?
Fillings are used for small, early cavities. The decayed part is removed, and a tooth-coloured material replaces it.
A filling works well when the tooth is mostly healthy.
Fillings are usually recommended when:
- The cavity is shallow
- Chewing strength is still normal
- The tooth structure is stable
- This is the first cavity on that tooth
Fillings are quick, simple, and minimally invasive, ideal for young patients with minor decay.
When Does a Child Need a Crown Instead of a Filling?
Crowns cover the whole tooth. They are used when decay is deeper or when a filling would not stay strong over time.
Crowns may be needed when:
- The cavity is large
- The tooth has been treated before
- The enamel is weak
- Fractures or chips reduce strength
Crowns offer better protection. They also reduce the chance of a child returning for repeated fixes on the same tooth.
Crowns vs. Fillings: What’s the Real Difference?
| Feature | Fillings | Crowns |
| Best for | Small cavities | Large or deep cavities |
| Strength | Moderate | High |
| Longevity | Shorter | Longer |
| Tooth coverage | Partial | Full |
| Return visits | More likely | Less likely |
This table helps parents quickly understand which option suits different levels of decay.
Why Your Child Benefits From a Pediatric Dental Specialist
A pediatric dentist understands how children’s teeth grow and how they respond to treatment.
At a Pediatric Dental Clinic in Airdrie, your child receives care that matches their age, comfort level, and oral health needs. This improves cooperation and reduces stress for parents and kids.
Why Choosing a Nearby Pediatric Dentist Helps Your Child
Choosing a pediatric dental clinic near you makes follow-up visits easier. Children sometimes experience discomfort when biting, lose temporary crowns, or need adjustments.
Being close ensures quick help and smooth check-ins.
How a Children’s Dentist Supports Long-Term Oral Health
Seeing a children’s dentist near you offers ongoing guidance as your child grows. Each tooth is different, and some children need more preventive care.
A specialist explains whether a filling or crown is the best long-term choice and ensures your child stays comfortable during treatment.
Because Your Child Deserves a Confident, Cavity-Free Smile
Both fillings and crowns protect your child’s smile, but the right choice depends on the size of the cavity and the condition of the tooth.
At Toothpals Pediatric Dentistry, our team helps parents make confident decisions and ensures every child receives safe and stress-free care.
Book an appointment at our dental clinic to get the right care for your child.
FAQs
Are pediatric crowns safe for kids?
Yes. They are specially made for baby teeth and protect them until they fall out naturally.
Do fillings last long in children?
They can, but durability depends on the size of the cavity and the child’s biting habits.
Is getting a crown painful for a child?
Treatment is done under local numbing, so children stay comfortable and usually return to normal eating the same day.
Can you skip treatment and wait for the tooth to fall out?
Leaving decay untreated can cause pain, infection, or damage to the adult tooth underneath.