When Do Children Need Crowns?

Dental crowns are not just for adults — children may need them too, for a variety of reasons. At Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry, the board-certified pediatric dentist Rockville parents trust, we often field questions from concerned parents about the necessity and safety of dental crowns for their children. Understanding when and why your child might need a crown can help ease any apprehensions and prepare you for what to expect from the process.

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Why Might a Child Need a Dental Crown?

1. Extensive Tooth Decay: One of the most common reasons a child might need a dental crown is due to extensive tooth decay that has compromised a significant portion of a tooth. When a cavity is too large or in a location that is not ideal for a traditional filling, a crown can cover and protect the tooth from further decay and breakdown.
2. Tooth Damage: Accidents happen, especially with active children. A tooth that is broken, particularly if it is one of the primary molars, might require a crown to preserve its functionality until it falls out, anywhere between ages 9-12. Primary molars should be preserved as long as possible until they reach their natural exfoliation timeline to help preserve the space for the permanent tooth that will replace it. 
3. Improper Tooth Development: Sometimes, a tooth may not form correctly, which can make it weak and susceptible to damage, decay, and fracture. Developmental defects in teeth are quite common, and a crown can provide the necessary support to ensure that the tooth functions normally and does not become a source of pain and sensitivity for your child. Think of it as covering the tooth in armor to protect it. 

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The Benefits of Dental Crowns for Children

Dental crowns provide several benefits in pediatric dentistry, including:

• Protection: Crowns safeguard a damaged or decayed tooth from further deterioration.
• Durability: They restore functionality, allowing children to chew properly without discomfort.
• Aesthetic: For front teeth, tooth-colored crowns can improve the appearance of a child’s smile, which can affect their self-esteem.
• Prevention: By covering the affected tooth, crowns help prevent the need for more invasive dental procedures in the future, such as tooth removal for a severely decayed or broken tooth that is damaged beyond repair. 

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Types of Crowns Used in Pediatric Dentistry

At Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry, the board-certified pediatric dentist Rockville loves, we typically use two types of crowns for children:

• Stainless Steel Crowns: These are most commonly used for primary teeth and are still considered “the gold standard”. They are safe, durable, cost-effective, and can be placed in a single visit. Stainless steel crowns are excellent for primary molars. They often can be placed using completely non-invasive methods that work even for young and marginally cooperative children. 

• Tooth-Colored Crowns: Made from materials similar to glass or plastic (depending on the situation), these crowns are used on front teeth in cases of significant decay, or in some cases of fracture due to trauma. They are designed to match the color of the surrounding teeth to provide a natural appearance. 

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What to Expect During the Crown Procedure

The process for placing a crown for a child differs from the process for an adult. If you have experienced the multiple steps it takes to fit a crown for one of your own teeth, don’t worry. For children, the stainless steel crowns (aka silver caps) are much simpler. Our office has a kit with every size of prefabricated crown, and after we adjust or modify the tooth as needed, we find the correct size and use a dental cement to essentially glue the crown over the tooth. Done!

The process can either be done the “traditional” way, which would include numbing and trimming the tooth, or it can be done using a non-invasive method that requires placement of rubber separators and a return visit 1-2 days later. Regardless of which approach is the most appropriate for your child’s specific situation, our team at Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry ensures that each step is carried out with the utmost care to make the experience as comfortable as possible for your child.

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Caring for Your Child’s Dental Crown

Caring for a dental crown involves routine oral hygiene practices. Encourage your child to:

• Brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque from around the crown and prevent gingivitis (gum inflammation)
• Avoid chewy and sticky candies that might pull on or dislodge the crown (e.g. Jolly Ranchers, Starburst, etc)
• Have regular dental check-up and cleaning visits to ensure the crown and surrounding soft tissues remain healthy.

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Why Choose Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry?

Choosing the right dentist for your child’s dental needs is crucial. At Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry, we are proud to be the board-certified pediatric dentist Rockville parents trust with their children’s dental care. We are committed to providing a friendly, comfortable environment where your child can receive top-quality dental treatment with compassion.

If you suspect your child may need a crown or if you have any concerns about their oral health, don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to answer any questions and provide the care your child needs to keep their smile bright and healthy for years to come.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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