A Comprehensive Guide to Kid’s Dental Crowns

Every parent wants the best for their kids, especially regarding their health. Preserving their dental health is no exception. Sometimes, kids may require more advanced dental treatments to ensure their smiles stay healthy and bright. Dental professionals may recommend a kid's dental crowns as one of these advanced treatments. The following blog provides a comprehensive guide to kids' dental crowns and what you and your child can expect from the process.

What is a kid’s dental crown?

Dental crowns, also known as tooth or dental caps, are protective coverings that go over the entire visible portion of a tooth. These crowns are custom-made to fit each kid's tooth effectively, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Dentists often recommend a kid's dental crown to treat various dental issues, such as:

• Severe tooth decay.
• Fractured or damaged teeth.
• A tooth with large fillings.
• Following a root canal treatment.
• Genetic tooth defects.

Types of Kids dental crowns

Stainless steel

Stainless steel crowns are the most common dental crowns for kids. Also known as silver crowns, this crown option is cost-effective and durable. Dentists often place painless steel crowns on baby teeth that will eventually fall out or on the back molars. This is because these crowns are less natural-looking than other crown options. They are also not recommended for kids with metal allergies.

Composite crowns

The dentist will color-match composite crowns to a kid's teeth. These crowns are made of a combination of plastic and glass and resemble the look of real teeth. However, they are less durable than stainless steel crowns and more susceptible to staining and chipping. They are also more expensive than stainless steel crowns.

Zirconia crowns

Zirconia is a strong and durable biocompatible material. Like composite crowns, a dental professional color-matches the zirconia crown to the natural teeth. They then cover the new crown with a glaze, making the restoration shine like a natural tooth.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns

Porcelain-fused-metal crowns, or resin veneer crowns, combine stainless steel and tooth-colored material to make the crown. They have the durability of stainless steel on the back of the crown and the appearance of natural-looking teeth on the front. However, they can not be trimmed and adjusted like other crowns and require more removal of the natural tooth structure.

The process of getting a kid’s dental crown

Getting a kid's dental crown takes a few steps. First, schedule an appointment with a kid dentist. The dentist will use this appointment to examine the patient's teeth and determine if they would benefit from a crown. If needed, they may take X-rays to assess the extent of the issue and determine the best course of treatment.

During the next appointment, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth. They then remove any decay or damaged portions in the treatment area. Then the dentist shapes the tooth to accommodate the dental crown.

The dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth to ensure a perfect fit for the crown. Until the custom crown can be made in a dental lab, the dentist will likely place a temporary crown to protect the natural tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will cement it onto the prepared tooth.

Caring for a kid’s dental crowns

Properly caring for one's new dental crown is essential to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips for caring for kids' dental crowns:

• Maintain good oral hygiene. Encourage them to brush and floss their teeth twice daily to prevent plaque buildup and maintain healthy gums.
• Limit sugary and sticky foods. Ensure they avoid sugary and sticky foods, which can increase tooth decay around the crown.
• Regular dental check-ups. Schedule regular dental check-ups so the dentist can monitor their crown’s condition and overall oral health.
• Protective mouthguards. To protect the teeth and crowns from dental injuries, ensure that they wear a custom-fitted mouthguard while participating in sports or activities.