Pediatric Crowns in Chandler, AZ
Picture this: your kiddo takes a tumble at the playground, or the dentist finds a cavity that’s bigger than expected. Suddenly, you’re hearing the word “crown” and wondering what that means for your child’s baby teeth. Here’s the good news: pediatric crowns are like little superhero caps that swoop in to save damaged teeth, making them strong and healthy again while keeping your child’s smile bright and beautiful.
At Kids Dental Center, we’ve seen just about every tooth situation imaginable, and we’re here to make the whole experience as fun and stress-free as possible. We know visiting the dentist can feel like a big deal for kids, which is why we’ve created an environment where children actually enjoy their appointments. Our team uses the latest materials and techniques to give your child the absolute best care, because every kid deserves top-notch treatment regardless of their insurance or family situation. Plus, all our services are designed with one goal in mind: helping your child feel comfortable with dental visits now and for years to come.
When Does Your Child Need a Pediatric Crown?
Baby teeth begin erupting around six months of age, and your child’s complete set should be in place by age three. While these primary teeth eventually fall out, they play a critical role in your child’s development. They hold space for permanent teeth, help with proper speech development, and allow your child to chew food comfortably.
Large Cavities
Large cavities are the most common reason for pediatric crowns. When decay affects more than one or two surfaces of a tooth, a filling might not provide enough support. Crowns restore the tooth’s whole structure and prevent further damage from bacteria.
Dental Trauma
Trauma is another frequent cause. Kids are active, and accidents happen. A crown can rebuild a tooth that’s been chipped, cracked, or broken during play or sports. This restoration protects the inner pulp and nerve from infection while maintaining the tooth’s appearance.
Developmental Issues
Some children are born with teeth that didn’t develop properly. Crowns can enhance both the function and appearance of these teeth, giving your child a healthy, natural-looking smile. For children who grind their teeth, crowns offer extra protection against wear.
Types of Crowns We Use
Different situations call for different crown materials. Each type has unique benefits that make it perfect for specific teeth and circumstances.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are the most durable option for back teeth, where chewing forces are strongest. They’re also the most cost-effective choice and work beautifully for teeth that have undergone pulp therapy. These crowns have been the gold standard in pediatric dentistry for decades because they’re incredibly reliable and long-lasting.
Tooth-Colored Crowns
Tooth-colored crowns blend with your child’s natural teeth and look completely natural. These work particularly well for front teeth, where appearance matters most to kids and parents alike. The material is strong enough to handle everyday use while giving your child confidence in their smile.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns combine strength with aesthetics. They’re incredibly durable and tooth-colored, making them an excellent choice for both front and back teeth. While they cost more than stainless steel, many parents appreciate the natural appearance and exceptional quality.
What to Expect During the Crown Procedure at Kids Dental Center
The crown placement process is straightforward. First, we prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown properly. We want your child to feel comfortable throughout, so we explain everything in kid-friendly terms and move at a pace that feels right for them.
Next, we select and fit the crown. For pre-formed crowns, we select the appropriate size and modify them to ensure a precise fit. Your child won’t experience discomfort because the area is adequately numbed before we begin any work.
Finally, we cement the crown in place using special dental material. The appointment typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, though this can vary based on your child’s cooperation and the tooth’s condition. Many kids are surprised by how quick and easy the whole experience turns out to be.
Caring for Your Child's Crown
Crowned teeth need the same care as natural teeth. Your child’s daily routine should include brushing twice a day and flossing once daily to keep the gum line healthy and prevent new cavities from forming around the crown’s edges.
Here are some helpful tips for keeping your child’s crown in great shape:
- Schedule regular dental checkups so we can monitor the crown and surrounding teeth
- Avoid sticky foods like caramels and taffy that could pull the crown loose
- Skip hard foods like ice cubes that might crack or damage the crown
- Let us know if your child grinds their teeth at night so we can discuss protective options
- Watch for signs of problems like looseness, pain, or swelling around the tooth
Most crowns last until the baby tooth naturally falls out, but occasionally they need adjustment or replacement. If you notice anything unusual, contact us right away so we can take a look.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Some parents wonder whether treating baby teeth is worth the effort. The answer is a resounding yes. Baby teeth hold proper spacing for permanent teeth. When a primary tooth is lost prematurely, neighboring teeth can shift into the space, creating crowding that may require extensive orthodontic treatment later.
These teeth also support proper jaw development and facial structure. They guide permanent teeth into their correct positions. Losing baby teeth prematurely can affect how your child’s bite develops and may lead to alignment issues.
Perhaps most importantly, healthy baby teeth allow your child to eat comfortably and speak clearly. Tooth pain and missing teeth can affect nutrition, speech development, and self-confidence. Protecting these teeth with crowns when necessary provides your child with the best foundation for lifelong oral health.
Creating Positive Dental Experiences at Kids Dental Center
At Kids Dental Center, we know that how your child feels about dental visits shapes their relationship with oral health for years to come. That’s why we’ve designed our office to be the most fun place a kid could visit for dental care. We provide multiple financing options because every child deserves quality care, regardless of their family’s insurance situation or economic background.
Whether your child needs a crown after an accident or as part of treating tooth decay, we’re here to help. Our goal is simple: give your child an experience that builds confidence rather than fear, and provide treatment that protects their smile until those permanent teeth are ready to take over. Contact our team to schedule your child’s appointment and learn more about how pediatric crowns can help.