Most Common Uses for Kids Dental Crowns

Kids dental crowns are a versatile solution in pediatric dentistry. They help protect damaged teeth and support the replacement of missing ones, making them a reliable option for long-term oral health. They can also improve the appearance of the smile. Pediatric dentists recommend crowns to restore function, protect developing teeth, and ensure a healthy, lasting smile for children.

Common uses for kids dental crowns in pediatric dentistry

Kids dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps cemented over natural teeth or dental implant posts. They can consist of metal, porcelain, tooth-colored composite resin, zirconia, or a combination of materials. They are custom-made to fit a patient's particular mouth and needs. Here are some common ways pediatric dentists use crowns to restore and maintain smiles.

Protect primary teeth until they naturally fall out

Even though primary (baby) teeth eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in a child’s oral development. Premature loss of primary teeth can lead to alignment issues, spacing problems, and difficulties with chewing or speech. Kids dental crowns can help protect weakened or damaged primary teeth, allowing them to remain in place until they naturally make way for permanent teeth.

Save decayed or damaged adult teeth

Children’s permanent (adult) teeth can become decayed or damaged to a point where dental fillings will not be enough to repair and keep them functional. Instead of pulling the tooth entirely, a pediatric dentist can cover the compromised tooth with a kids dental crown. The crown holds the tooth together and repairs its appearance. It also restores the tooth's chewing function and helps protect it from future decay.

Reinforce root canal-treated teeth

Root canal therapy treats infection or inflammation that has reached the center of a tooth. Though commonly associated with adults, children may also need this treatment to preserve their oral health.

After a pediatric dentist performs a root canal, the treated tooth is devitalized. That means it no longer has nerves or the ability to sense pain. While it can still serve its purpose, it is more vulnerable to decay after the procedure. A kids dental crown can cover the tooth to help protect it from decay and retain its biting force.

Stabilize and support dental bridges

Kids dental crowns are important components of traditional dental bridges, restorations that replace one or a few missing teeth. A traditional bridge is a false tooth called a pontic flanked on each side by crowns. The pontic fills the empty space left by the missing tooth, while the crowns attach the pontic to the natural teeth on either side.

Improve the appearance of badly worn permanent teeth

Sometimes, kids dental crowns are used for purely cosmetic reasons. For example, if a permanent tooth is badly stained, misshapen, or damaged, the pediatric dentist can make a crown to cover the tooth completely. The crown will be custom-made to look just like a natural tooth with an aesthetically pleasing appearance.