Children's Crowns & Fillings in Hampstead, NC
Our Patient's Experiences
When Cavities Happen, We're Here to Help
Protecting Your Child's Future Smile
Primary teeth aren't just "baby teeth"—they're important placeholders that help permanent teeth come in properly. When we restore decayed baby teeth with fillings or crowns, we're protecting your child's bite, speech development, and the alignment of their future adult teeth.
Preventing Pain and Complications
Left untreated, cavities can spread and cause serious pain, infections, and missed school days. Dr. Knockum explains his philosophy: "I cannot expect a three-year-old to sit down and have three cavities filled" the same way an older child might. That's why we customize our approach—sometimes that means using fluoride treatments to slow decay until a young child is ready for more extensive treatment.
Meeting Each Child Where They're At
Dr. Knockum believes "every child is an individual, and there are no cookie-cutter solutions for their care." Two children with the same problem might need completely different approaches—one might need sedation to feel comfortable, while another only needs some numbing gel on their tooth.
Our Gentle Restoration Options
Tooth-Colored Fillings
We use natural-looking composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your child's teeth. These durable restorations effectively repair cavities while keeping your child's smile looking natural.
Stainless Steel Crowns
For extensively damaged primary teeth, these strong caps provide excellent protection and function until permanent teeth emerge. They prevent further decay and maintain proper spacing—and kids often think they have "robot teeth," which can actually make the experience more fun.
Zirconia Crowns
White ceramic crowns offer a natural-looking alternative for visible front teeth. These metal-free restorations are both durable and aesthetically pleasing, especially important for older children who are more conscious of their appearance.
How We Make Treatment Comfortable
We Start by Talking with You
Dr. Hayes begins every appointment by speaking with parents first: "So you're never left to guess what is about to happen. Instead, I walk you through what to expect from the entire procedure." When you understand why your child might react to certain sensations, it alleviates anxiety for everyone involved.
Understanding Your Child's Needs
We ask about your child's "do's or don'ts"—maybe they have a severe gag reflex we need to be careful about, or perhaps they need consistent breaks during procedures. "Whatever that child needs to feel secure, I will work around it," says Dr. Hayes, even if that means working in 15- or 10-second increments.
Age-Appropriate Communication
For younger children in the "imaginative phase," Dr. Hayes might use language like "fixing the sugar bugs" or giving a "mosquito kiss" for numbing. With older kids, she provides honest explanations about how bacteria affects teeth because children appreciate understanding the real reasons behind treatment.
Parents Stay Throughout Treatment
Dr. Knockum wants every parent to see what's happening: "When you bring your child to see me, you will be with them at all times—because this is a family experience." You'll never be asked to wait in another room while procedures are happening.
Meet Our Experienced Doctors
Dr. Brandon Knockum
Dr. Crystal Hayes
Creating a No-Judge Zone
Dr. Hayes calls our practice a "no-judge zone" because every child has a unique way of expressing their feelings. For families with special needs children, we understand that even basic routines can be incredibly challenging. We work closely with you to create treatment plans within your child's abilities and comfort level.
Our Treatment Process
Tell, Show, Do Approach
We use this technique because, as Dr. Knockum explains, "A lot of kids get scared because they don't know what's coming next." We walk through each step so children know exactly what to expect, reducing anxiety and building confidence.
Flexible Sedation Options
We offer laughing gas, oral sedation, and general anesthesia based on your child's individual needs. Dr. Knockum's experience at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin prepared him to work with children who need extra support, because "no child should go without care."
Taking Every Tool Out of the Toolbox
Dr. Hayes believes in exploring all options: "When it comes to treating my patients, I take every tool I have out of the toolbox." Sometimes that means phasing treatment over multiple visits, using different sedation levels, or coordinating with your child's other healthcare providers.
Why People Love Hampstead Pediatric Dentistry
Care Close to Home
Trusted Expertise
13 and 15 years of experience treating everyone from infants to special needs children with patience and understanding.
Individual Approach
Family-Centered Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you decide if my child needs a filling versus a crown?
It depends on how much of the tooth is affected by decay. Small cavities can usually be treated with tooth-colored fillings, but when decay is more extensive, a crown provides better protection and strength. We'll show you exactly what we see and explain why we're recommending one treatment over another, so you can make an informed decision together with us.
Will my child be in pain during the procedure?
We use gentle numbing techniques to ensure your child is comfortable throughout treatment. Some children might feel pressure during the procedure, which is why Dr. Hayes explains everything beforehand—when you understand what your child might experience, it helps both of you feel more in control. We can also work in short increments if your child needs frequent breaks.
What if my young child can't sit still for the procedure?
Dr. Knockum understands that you "cannot expect a three-year-old to sit down and have three cavities filled" like an older child. We have several options—sometimes we can use fluoride treatments to slow decay until your child is older and more cooperative, or we can discuss sedation options that help them feel comfortable and relaxed during treatment.
How long do fillings and crowns last in children?
Fillings in baby teeth typically last several years until the tooth naturally falls out, while stainless steel crowns usually last until the permanent tooth is ready to come in. We'll monitor your child's restorations at each checkup to make sure they're holding up well and the permanent teeth are developing normally.
Are dental crowns noticeable on children's teeth?
Stainless steel crowns on back teeth aren't very visible when your child smiles or talks, and many kids actually think they're cool "robot teeth." For front teeth, we can use white zirconia crowns that look completely natural. We'll discuss the best option based on which tooth needs treatment and your child's age.
Can my child still eat normally with fillings and crowns?
Yes, once the numbness wears off, your child can return to normal eating. We do recommend avoiding very sticky or hard foods that might damage the restoration. Dr. Hayes will provide specific care instructions and answer any questions you have about maintaining your child's restoration at home.
How can I prepare my child for getting fillings or crowns?
Keep explanations simple and positive. We use our "Tell, Show, Do" approach during the appointment so children know exactly what to expect. You can let them know we're going to "fix the sugar bugs" for younger kids, or explain that we're stopping bacteria from causing more damage for older children who appreciate understanding the real reasons.
What sedation options do you offer for anxious children?
We offer laughing gas, oral sedation, and general anesthesia depending on your child's needs and the extent of treatment required. Dr. Knockum's hospital experience taught him that some children need different levels of support, and we believe "no child should go without care" because of anxiety or special needs.
Will my insurance cover my child's fillings and crowns?
Most dental insurance plans cover necessary restorative treatments for children. Our team will verify your benefits before treatment and provide clear cost estimates so there are no surprises. We also offer flexible payment options because we believe every child deserves quality dental care regardless of financial circumstances.
What happens if my child's baby tooth with a crown falls out early?
We'll evaluate whether the permanent tooth is ready to come in or if we need a space maintainer to preserve proper alignment. Every situation is different, which is why Dr. Hayes believes in "taking every tool I have out of the toolbox"—we'll create a plan that's specifically right for your child's dental development.
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