Crowns
What Are Pediatric Crowns?
Pediatric crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over a child's decayed or damaged primary (baby) tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and function.
They’re commonly used when:
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A cavity is too large for a filling.
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The tooth is broken or weakened.
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After a pulpotomy or pulpectomy (baby root canal).
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To protect teeth in children with high risk of decay.
Why Are Pediatric Crowns Used?
Key purposes:
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Preserve baby teeth until they naturally fall out — important for maintaining spacing and proper eruption of permanent teeth.
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Prevent further decay or damage.
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Improve function (chewing, speaking).
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Aesthetics — especially in front teeth.
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Reduce the need for extractions and orthodontic treatment later.
How Are Pediatric Crowns Placed?
Step-by-step procedure:
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Diagnosis and X-ray – Dentist assesses the extent of decay/damage.
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Local anesthesia – To numb the area.
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Tooth preparation – Removal of decay and shaping of the tooth.
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Pulp treatment (if needed) – e.g., pulpotomy.
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Crown selection and fitting – Pre-fabricated crowns are adjusted and cemented over the tooth.
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Cementation – Crown is secured with dental cement.
Most pediatric crowns are preformed (ready-made) and require minimal adjustment.
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Types of Pediatric Crowns
Stainless steel crowns, Zirconia crowns, Resin/Strip crowns, Polycarbonate crowns
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Visits Required
Usually 1; 2 if complex or aesthetic crowns used