When your child has a damaged tooth or severe decay, a dental crown can protect their smile and restore comfort.
At Smiley Dental Group, our expert team will evaluate your child’s needs, and if a crown is recommended, we will refer you to a trusted pediatric dentist who specializes in this treatment.
Why a Child Might Need a Crown
Your child’s primary teeth, often called baby teeth, play an important role in helping permanent teeth come in correctly. When a baby tooth becomes too damaged for a filling, a pediatric crown can restore strength and prevent early tooth loss.
Crowns are often recommended when a child’s tooth has:
- Severe tooth decay that a filling can’t repair
- Cracks, chips, or wear from injury
- A weakened structure that affects chewing or speech
Covering the affected tooth with a crown helps maintain normal function, supports healthy spacing for adult teeth, and protects your child’s oral health until the primary tooth naturally falls out.
Different Types of Pediatric Crowns
There are several types of pediatric crowns, each designed for durability, comfort, and a natural look. The right crown depends on your child’s age, the location of the tooth, and individual needs.
Common crown options include:
Stainless steel crowns
The most common type used on back teeth. These are strong, long-lasting, and ideal for chewing.
Resin or composite strip crowns
Tooth-colored crowns that offer a natural appearance for front teeth.
Zirconia crowns
Durable, biocompatible crowns with a smooth, white surface that blends beautifully with natural teeth.
Ceramic crowns
Another tooth-colored option that’s great for children with metal allergies.
Our dentists will discuss the different types of crowns with you, explain the benefits of each, and recommend the best option to protect your child’s smile.
Are Crowns Common in Pediatric Dentistry?
Yes. Pediatric dental crowns are a common and trusted solution for children with tooth decay or damaged teeth. Because younger children are still learning good oral hygiene habits, decay in baby teeth can progress quickly.
Placing a crown helps prevent more serious issues later, like infections or the need for early tooth removal, and keeps your child’s teeth comfortable and functional for years to come.
Silver vs. White Crowns
Parents often ask about the difference between silver and white crowns.
- Stainless steel crowns (silver) are durable and often used on back baby teeth that handle chewing pressure.
- Zirconia or resin crowns (white) are ideal for front teeth, giving your child a natural look when they smile.
Both protect the entire tooth from further damage, but your dentist will help you choose based on the location of the tooth, child’s age, and aesthetic preference.
Benefits of Crowns for Children
Choosing a pediatric crown offers many benefits for your child’s long-term dental health:
By restoring the natural tooth, crowns give your child a strong, comfortable foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
Creating Healthy Smiles in Columbus, OH
Protecting baby teeth is about more than repair. It supports confident growth and long-term oral health. At Smiley Dental Group, we make every visit calm, positive, and focused on your child’s comfort.
If your child has a damaged tooth and may benefit from a pediatric dental crown, call 614-889-0726 or book online to schedule a visit. Our team will assess their needs and, when a crown is recommended, refer you to a trusted pediatric specialist while continuing to support your child’s care every step of the way.