I hope you can provide me with some information before I take my daughter to her pediatric dentist. She is 11 years old and fell off her bike and chipped her front tooth almost in half. It’s her permanent tooth so I’m wondering if a porcelain veneer or a crown would be best. I want it to look natural so she doesn’t get teased in school. My sister is a dental hygienist and she said that because my daughter is so young, her pediatric dentist isn’t going to recommend either a veneer or a crown that is made of porcelain. Is this true? Thanks. Sivan

Sivan - Your daughter’s pediatric dentist will first test the tooth and check for damage to the nerve in it. Depending on the health of the tooth, there are different ways to treat it.

Crowns or Veneers for Children?

Porcelain crowns and veneers are a challenge to stay in place as a child’s teeth and jawbone are still developing. The restoration would need to be periodically replaced as your daughter grows and develops. A single porcelain veneer can be costly. A dental crown is also an investment that you should weigh carefully. Porcelain restorations are more expensive than other options.

Dental Bonding Repairs Chips in Teeth

Most pediatric dentists suggest replacing the broken portion of a tooth with dental bonding. Dental bonding is a mixture of quartz or silica with dental resin. It is applied to the tooth in the dentist’s office using the following steps:

• The affected tooth will be roughened and etched.
• Dental bonding will be selected and blended to match your daughter’s tooth shade.
• The bonding will be applied, shaped, hardened and polished.

Although some pediatric dentists offer the service, a skilled cosmetic dentist has the tools and composite materials needed to ensure the bonding matches your daughter’s teeth. Usually, it only takes one appointment to restore the appearance of the tooth.

Although it can be costly to replace porcelain veneers or crowns as children develop, dental bonding can be touched up and polished or replaced if necessary.

Schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist who enjoys having children as patients.

This post is sponsored by Chatham, NJ accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley