In dentistry, a crown refers to the surface area of the portion of the tooth above the gum line that is covered by enamel. In the event that this layer gets damaged due to decay, chips, fractures, or deep stains, your pediatric dentist may recommend that your child get an artificial dental crown to fix the problem. 

Crowns can be made from tooth-colored materials such as porcelain and composite resin, metals such as gold, silver, and nickel/chromium alloys, or a fusion of porcelain and metal to combine the benefits of each type of material. The custom-made crown or cap will be permanently bonded to the damaged tooth in order to restore its natural shape, size, strength, function, and appearance (for tooth-colored crowns). 

But Should Your Child Get a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are used to either restore the function of a damaged tooth, or to improve its appearance. There are other treatments that can be used to address the same issues, so your preference for your child may not necessarily be dental crowns. Moreover, if you’re child is not in pain from decay or tooth damage, they may not need to seek urgent treatment yet, provided the tooth is still functional. 

That said, there are several dental issues that may require treatment with dental crowns, including:

• A chipped, broken, or fractured tooth that is sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks
• Weakened filling 
• Very large cavities 
• To strengthen and improve appearance of restored tooth after root canal therapy  
• To protect primary teeth (baby teeth) for children at high risk for tooth decay

Learn More About Dental Crowns for Kids

Depending on your child’s specific case, your dentist will help you choose the most appropriate material for your custom dental crowns, restoring the function and appearance of your mouth. To learn more about dental crowns, please visit your pediatric dentist in Los Angeles CA today.