Dental crowns are a marvel of modern dentistry for patients of all ages. This includes pediatric dentistry, where crowns are necessary for kids whose teeth become damaged or weakened.
Kids’ teeth may require crowns for a variety of reasons, from cavities and injury to developmental issues. Regardless of the cause, a dental crown can restore the function and appearance of a child's tooth, ensuring they maintain proper oral health and self-confidence while avoiding more complex dental issues in the future.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, we offer two different types of crowns:
- Zirconia crowns — These strong, durable dental crowns look like your child’s natural tooth. They don’t contain metal, and their smooth surface is resistant to plaque buildup or breakage.
- Stainless steel crowns — These silver crowns are commonly used as a safe way to protect your child’s baby teeth from further decay or breakage. They are a cost-effective way to preserve baby teeth and allow them to eat comfortably.
The Dental Crown Procedure
Here are the steps for the dental crown procedure:
- Prepping the tooth — First, we will numb your child’s tooth. They won’t feel anything during the procedure.
- Removing decay — Next, we’ll remove any decay or damage and shape their tooth so the crown will fit correctly.
- Placing the crown — We’ll place either a zirconia or stainless steel crown over their tooth.
How Do Pediatric Crowns Differ from Adult Crowns?
The primary differences between pediatric crowns and adult crowns are as follows:
- Material — Pediatric crowns are often made from stainless steel if used to protect baby teeth; adult crowns are typically made from porcelain or ceramic.
- Fabrication — Pediatric crowns are often pre-fabricated and modified by the dentist instead of sent to a dental lab.
- Cost — Pediatric crowns often cost less than adult crowns.
- Longevity — Pediatric crowns are meant to last a shorter time, while adult crowns are a long-term dental solution.
Protecting Teeth from Severe Decay
A primary reason for dental crowns in children is severe decay. Baby teeth are particularly vulnerable to cavities, and if the decay reaches an advanced stage, it can compromise the tooth's structure. In these cases, a crown acts as a protective shell, helping prevent cavities from worsening and preserving the tooth — and comfortable eating and speaking functions — for as long as possible.
Restoring Teeth Damaged by Trauma
Kids are naturally active and frequently engage in sports and other physical activities that can lead to accidents like hard falls or blows to the face. These can chip or crack teeth and cause severe discomfort. In these cases, crowns restore the damaged tooth to its original shape and function, protect exposed areas, reduce sensitivity, and ensure the tooth’s long-term stability.
Supporting Healthy Oral Development
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in oral development by guiding permanent teeth into their correct positions. Prematurely extracting baby teeth that become severely damaged or infected can cause alignment issues in permanent teeth. Crowns can help preserve baby teeth until they naturally fall out and prevent potential misalignment or crowding.
Other Reasons for Dental Crowns
We may need to place a dental crown on your child’s tooth if they have a developmental defect such as enamel hypoplasia or after undergoing pulp therapy.
The Benefits of Pediatric Dental Crowns in Highlands Ranch
Once we place a dental crown, here’s how it helps your child’s smile:
- Restores function — A dental crown allows your child to bite and chew their favorite foods.
- Prevents further damage — A dental crown covers and protects your child’s tooth, keeping it from further deterioration or damage.
- Improves appearance — A dental crown looks just like your child’s natural tooth; no one will know they have a crown!
Are You Looking for a Pediatric Dentist in Castle Pines, CO?
If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist in Castle Pines with experience in precisely and compassionately placing pediatric dental crowns, contact Dr. Jon Sierk and the caring and knowledgeable Sierk Children’s Dentistry team to schedule a consultation today! We are located in Castle Pines and Highlands Ranch.