What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, also called a dental cap, is a protective covering that fits over a damaged tooth. It restores shape, strength, and chewing function while sealing the tooth to prevent further damage.
Tooth Be Told
Crowns for kids are pre-made and adjusted chairside, so treatment is cost-effective and efficient. With the right care, they last until the baby tooth naturally falls out.
Common Reasons Children Need Dental Crowns
When cavities or other damage become too big for a simple filling, a crown may be the best way to save and protect the tooth.
Common reasons for crowns include:
- Large or multi-surface cavities where a filling wouldn’t be strong enough.
- After pulp therapy (baby root canal) is performed to protect a tooth with an infected pulp.
- Cracked or broken teeth.
- Developmental enamel defects that leave teeth prone to wear or chipping.
- To maintain bite functionality, supporting normal chewing and speech.
A crown keeps a damaged baby tooth strong so it can do its job until it falls out naturally.
Types of Dental Crowns for Kids
Crowns come in several styles, each with its own advantages. The choice depends on the tooth and your child’s individual needs.
| Type of Crown | Description |
|---|---|
| Stainless steel crowns (SSC) | Most often used for back baby teeth. Strong, reliable, and cost-effective. Preformed crowns are crimped for a snug fit, though the silver colour is visible. |
| Open-face stainless steel crowns | Typically used for upper front teeth. Combine SSC strength with a tooth-coloured facing for improved appearance. The facing can wear over time. |
| Resin-coated (veneered) SSC | An option when extra durability is needed with added aesthetics. Less common, as the veneered surface can chip with heavy biting habits. |
| Zirconia crowns (tooth-coloured ceramic) | Used on front teeth and molars to provide strength with a natural appearance. Lifelike, smooth, and resistant to staining. Requires more precise shaping and may not suit every bite or spacing. |
| Strip crowns (composite crowns) | Often used on front baby teeth with decay or fractures. Custom-shaped and provide excellent aesthetics, but the composite can chip or stain if oral hygiene is inconsistent. |
Having several crown options means we can protect baby teeth in a way that works for each child, helping them chew, smile, and grow comfortably.
The Dental Crown Procedure
Crowns are placed in just a few simple steps. Each stage is explained in kid-friendly language so children know what to expect and feel comfortable throughout the visit.
- Comfort first: We use a topical gel and a gentle local anaesthetic.
- Clean and shape: Once the tooth is numb, the dentist gently removes the decay, cleans the area, and, if necessary, treats the nerve inside. The tooth is then shaped so the crown can fit snugly on top.
- Try-in and fit: Once the tooth is shaped, the dentist selects the right size crown from the chosen material and adjusts it so it fits securely.
- Cement and polish: The crown is cemented in place, the bite is checked, and the edges are smoothed.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With good daily care and regular checkups, pediatric crowns last until the baby tooth falls out. Stainless steel and zirconia crowns are especially durable. Composite strip crowns are less durable than metal or ceramic options and may need touch-ups over time.
Even though crowns are built to last, they still require daily care. Here are some tips to keep them strong and secure:
- Restrict foods like taffy, caramels, and fruit snacks, they can loosen or pull at crowns causing them to fall off.
- Cut crunchy vegetables like carrots or apples into small pieces and offer them often, this can help clean teeth naturally without stressing crowns.
- Encourage your child to drink water after meals to rinse away food and sugars that stick around crowns.
- Make brushing fun with a timer or song so your child spends enough time cleaning every surface, including around crowns.
- Schedule regular dental checkups so the dentist can check how the crown is holding up and make small adjustments if needed.
- Watch for habits like chewing on pencils, ice, or fingernails, which can wear down or loosen crowns over time.
Our Approach to Pediatric Crowns
Every child deserves a calm, supportive experience and treatment that’s right for their smile. Here’s how we make crowns a positive part of pediatric dentistry:
- Gentle, kid-focused visits that reduce stress for both children and parents.
- Evidence-based choices, from stainless steel to zirconia, matched to your child’s needs.
- Comprehensive care that combines crowns with prevention—checkups, cleanings, fluoride, and sealants.
Together, these steps help us restore comfort and function while supporting healthy growth. The result is a confident smile that lasts long after the baby teeth are gone.
A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles Starts with Protection
Dental crowns are one of the most effective ways to save baby teeth that have been damaged by cavities, fractures, or developmental issues. By restoring strength and function, crowns protect your child’s comfort today and support healthy growth for the future.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in SE Calgary, call 403-873-1414 or visit us at Health Plus Building 200, 290 Midpark Way SE Calgary, Alberta T2X 1P1.
FAQs
How much does a crown cost in Calgary?
The cost of a crown can vary depending on the tooth and the material used. We’ll provide a detailed estimate before treatment begins.
At what age can a child get a crown?
There’s no strict minimum. If a tooth has erupted and is restorable, a crown can be placed, even for very young children. The decision is based on the condition of the tooth, your child’s comfort, and what will best preserve it until the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
What is the difference between a dental crown and a dental cap?
They are the same thing—two names for one treatment. You might also hear us say “robot tooth” or “tooth jewelry.”
Do crowns on baby teeth affect permanent teeth?
Yes, they do. Crowns protect baby teeth so they can hold space and guide permanent teeth into place.
Will my child need a root canal?
It depends on why the crown is needed. If the tooth was damaged by an injury, a root canal is usually not necessary. If the crown is being placed because decay has reached the nerve, pulp therapy (sometimes called a baby root canal) may be recommended first to keep the tooth healthy.
Who offers pediatric dental crowns near me?
BabyTooth, located in SE Calgary, offers a full range of pediatric dental services. Children can receive crowns, fillings, exams, cleanings, and preventive treatments in a warm, supportive, and child-friendly environment.
