What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a protective cover or cap that fits over a tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. In pediatric dentistry, crowns are often used when a tooth has significant decay, has been treated with pulp therapy, or is at risk of breaking.
Unlike dental fillings, which repair a small area, crowns cover the entire tooth. This provides added protection and helps the tooth last until it is ready to naturally fall out and be replaced by an adult tooth.
When Are Dental Crowns Recommended?
Dental crowns may be recommended when a tooth needs more support than a filling can provide.
We may recommend a crown when:
- There is significant tooth decay that can’t be restored with a filling
- Teeth have had pulp therapy (pulpotomy or pulpectomy)
- Teeth are cracked, broken, or weakened
- Teeth are at high risk for further decay
Did You Know?
Baby teeth help guide adult teeth into place. Losing them too early can affect spacing and development, which is why protecting them when possible is so important.
Types of Dental Crowns We Offer
At Happy Little Chompers, we offer several types of materials based on what will be most durable, comfortable, and appropriate for your child’s stage of development.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Commonly used on back teeth because they are very durable. They provide strong protection and are often recommended after pulp therapy or for teeth with extensive decay.
Zirconia Crowns
Tooth colored and designed for a natural appearance. Made from a strong ceramic material, they provide full coverage and are often used for front teeth or when appearance is an important consideration.
Strip Crowns
Typically used for front teeth. They are filled with tooth colored material and shaped to restore the tooth while maintaining a natural look.
What to Expect During The Appointment
Care is tailored to your child’s comfort level, with a focus on making the experience manageable and positive. The exact steps may vary depending on the condition of the tooth and whether additional treatment, such as pulp therapy, is needed.
During the appointment, you can expect:
- A simple explanation of each step so your child knows what to expect
- Gentle removal of decay or damaged tooth structure
- Placement and fitting of the crown
- Comfort measures such as nitrous oxide if needed
- Positive encouragement and a prize at the end of the visit
Some children are ready to complete treatment in one visit, while others may benefit from a slower, step-by-step approach over time. The goal is always to complete treatment in a way that supports your child’s comfort and long term success.
Sedation & Comfort Options
Most children do very well with gentle coaching, encouragement, and a child-friendly approach. We take time to explain things in ways children can understand and help them feel comfortable every step of the way.
Before an extraction, we place a flavored numbing jelly on the gums before using “sleepy juice” (local anesthesia) to help the tooth and surrounding area take a nap. Nitrous oxide may be recommended for children who would benefit from a little extra help relaxing during treatment.
One of the best ways to prepare your child is to keep the conversation simple and positive. There is no need to explain the details of the procedure ahead of time. Our team will guide your child through the experience using kid-friendly language, encouragement, and plenty of reassurance along the way.
Insurance & Payment Information
We accept most PPO dental insurance plans and will submit claims on your behalf. If you have questions about your specific coverage, please contact our office and our team will be happy to help. We provide treatment estimates before care begins and accept cash, major credit cards, and tap-to-pay options.
FAQ
How much is a dental crown for kids in California?
The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the type of crown and your insurance coverage. We will review all costs and options with you before treatment.
Is it painful to get a crown?
Treatment is performed with comfort in mind. Local anesthesia and sedation options are used when needed, and most children tolerate crown placement very well.
Are dental crowns safe for children?
Pediatric dental crowns are commonly used and considered a safe, effective way to restore and protect damaged teeth.
Can a crowned baby tooth still fall out normally?
Yes, a crowned baby tooth will still fall out naturally when the adult tooth is ready to come in.
Is there a pediatric dentist in Fairfield that offers pediatric dental crowns?
Happy Little Chompers offers pediatric dental crowns and other restorative procedures for children. To schedule an appointment, call (707) 429-5450.