Can Pediatric Crowns Be Used For Kids?

When we’re adults, it’s considered normal for people to get dental crowns. But for children, the idea of pediatric crowns is practically unheard of when it comes to dental treatment. But in some pediatric circles, pediatric crowns can be a useful way to address complex dental problems in children. So, what are pediatric crowns all about, and how do they work? As pediatric dentists, we’re here to explain this treatment, why it may be good for children, and how the procedure is performed so, you can be more informed about your child’s dental options. 

What Are Pediatric Crowns? Why Children? 

Children with extensive tooth decay may need pediatric crowns in cases where the tooth decay exists on the outer exterior of the enamel but hasn’t affected the inner dentin and pulp. Dental crowns are generally used for protecting the teeth from decay while providing a protective outer coating. If tooth decay has begun breaking down the enamel and started reaching into the dentin layers of the tooth, then a pediatric crown can help protect those teeth until they transition into adult teeth. 

Even with primary teeth, children need to be protected from dental cavities. The bacteria that infects the mouth can cause significant damage to erupting teeth, gums, and jawbone if not treated. Pediatric crowns help address signs of significant dental decay when a dental filling cannot and can provide protection that other treatments cannot. These types of treatment are especially useful for signs of tooth decay on a single tooth and can help protect your child’s teeth as they grow older. 

How Are Pediatric Crowns Prepared? 

Because our teeth and gums are essential to our dental health, pediatric crowns can be an excellent option to protect your child’s smile for life. The process of getting pediatric crowns is straightforward, and your pediatric dentist will be able to provide you with further information about when it’s time to get pediatric crowns. These steps include: 

• Preparation: Before your child gets their pediatric crowns, the tooth needs to be removed from all existing tooth decay, cleaned and disinfected, and shaped so it can accept the restoration. 
• Impressions: Alginate impressions or digital impressions may be used to get an impression of the tooth and surrounding areas so that the pediatric tooth can be fabricated at a dental lab. 
• Temporary Crown: When the crown is being fabricated, your pediatric dentist will place a temporary crown on top of the cleaned tooth to protect it from decay and bacteria. 
• Permanent Crown: Once the permanent restoration is completed, your child’s temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be placed onto the primary tooth. 

Pediatric crowns ensure that your child’s oral health will continue to develop and stay healthy for years to come, even as the primary teeth erupt and become adult teeth. Speaking with your local pediatric dentist can allow you to protect your child’s teeth for life as they grow older and help them receive positive experiences at the dentist.