White Crowns

Since the enamel of baby teeth is thinner, cavities tend to spread more easily and usually come to affect a larger area of the tooth. It is at this point, that crowns may be the only way to protect the tooth from premature extraction. In all three of our offices, we offer white or tooth-colored pediatric crowns as well as silver, stainless steel crowns.

What Is A Dental Crown?

A crown is a permanent dental appliance used to hide and/or protect damaged teeth. A stainless steel or white facing crown is commonly used to cap and or replace missing parts on primary teeth, making the affected teeth more functional and often hiding signs of treatment.

Why Would Baby Teeth Need to Be Restored by A Crown?

Baby teeth that show evidence of extensive decay, with two or more surfaces affected, can sometimes be saved using a crown. Occasionally, especially in esthetic areas, it is possible to use a tooth-colored crown. These crowns can be used to protect front teeth when they become cracked or chipped, have undergone root canal therapy, show signs of decay, or are markedly discolored. In particular, if the decay or cavity has spread to different surfaces of the tooth or has reached the pulp of the tooth, a baby root canal may need to be performed. At that point, the tooth becomes weaker and is more likely to crack. In these instances, it is important to protect the tooth by using a crown.

Which Type of Crown (Tooth Colored or Silver) Is Best for Restoring Baby Teeth?

In general, for front teeth, our dentists at ABC Kids Dental Group recommend using tooth-colored crowns. These crowns are both esthetic and strong. However, for baby molars that are constantly exposed to chewing and grinding, silver stainless steel crowns may be a better option.

How Are Baby Crowns Prepared?

After the child is completely numb using local anesthesia, all of the affected tooth surfaces are removed and cleaned to rid the tooth of decay. The tooth is then prepared in a certain way so that a prefabricated crown can fit on it. Our dentists will then determine what size crown fits best for the tooth and the crown is cemented in place.

Precautions After Having A Crown Placed on A Baby Tooth

Immediately after treatment, the child mustn't eat anything too hard or sticky. Chips and popcorn pieces can get stuck under the crown, making it uncomfortable. Also, sticky or hard candies, like bubble gum, can displace the crown. If a crown gets displaced, the child should be returned to our dental office for re-cement.

To prevent this, however, parents should be careful about what the child eats after treatment. Often, we recommend softer foods. Also, sometimes the gums may become slightly irritated by the new crown. It is important to continue to brush around the gums of these teeth to prevent further irritation or infection.

Call us at 833-i-ABC-Kid (833-522-2543) to learn more about tooth-colored or stainless-steel crowns. We currently have office locations in Pacoima, Sun Valley, and Granada Hills.