Pediatric dental crowns are commonly used to restore teeth when cavities, damage, or injuries occur. For years, traditional stainless steel was the standard. Many of us are used to seeing shiny silver crowns when someone opens wide. However, thanks to advancements in dental technology, pediatric dentists are now using white pediatric dental crowns. These crowns offer many benefits, but it's only natural for patients and their families to have questions before choosing this crown material. 

How long do white crowns for kids last?  

The lifespan of dental crowns depends on how old your child is when they get the crown. If the crown is put on a baby tooth, the dentist will use a crown that will last until the tooth falls out. If the crown is put on an adult tooth, the dentist will use a permanent dental crown. When cared for properly, the longevity of dental crowns can span 10–20 years. The initial fit, good oral hygiene, and regular visits to the dentist for check-ups can extend the life of crowns. Patients should avoid sugary foods, floss, and brush regularly.

How long do kids wear crowns?  

When a child gets a crown as a toddler or on a baby tooth, it is only needed until the tooth falls out. If a child gets a crown on an adult tooth, they will wear it for as long as it lasts. Once the crown fails on an adult tooth, the patient will need a replacement crown.

How long do crowns stay white?   

A great perk of white pediatric crowns compared with stainless steel crowns is that they match the natural color of the surrounding teeth. Dental professionals use a shade guide to help match the color to the patient's natural color of their teeth. The crown then blends seamlessly and usually isn't noticed.  White crowns discolor more slowly than regular teeth. In addition, whitening treatments do not work on crowns. They can never get whiter than they were originally. This means that over time, the natural teeth and the crown may not match as well. However, this is usually subtle and not noticed. 

Do pediatric crowns fall out?  

Dental crowns for kids may fall out, and multiple factors could cause this. The most common reason is that the crown was put on a baby tooth, and it naturally falls out.  However, there are other reasons why a crown might fall out. These include:

• Age and normal wear and tear
• A poor fit or improper bonding when placed
• Tooth decay under the crown
• Grinding teeth
• Trauma
• Biting on something hard or using the teeth as tools (for instance, opening packages)

If a crown falls out, it's important to call your dentist immediately to schedule a replacement. The surface under the crown may be sensitive and make the patient uncomfortable. It's also important to replace the crown as soon as possible to keep the area from getting infected. 

Can crowns get cavities?     

Since white crowns for kids are made of materials that cannot decay, they cannot get cavities. However, the tooth remaining under the crown can still develop a cavity. This can happen because of poor dental hygiene and is most likely to occur where the tooth and the crown meet. A poor bond between the tooth and the crown can allow bacteria to penetrate the remaining tooth surfaces and cause decay. 

To prevent cavities from forming in the tooth under the crown, it's important to limit sugary foods and beverages and brush and floss regularly. It's also important to call your pediatric dentist right away if there is any pain or sensitivity in the tooth with the crown.

What are white pediatric crowns made of?

There are several possibilities for materials for white pediatric dental crowns. Talk to your dentist about the best choice for your child's situation. There are many factors to consider, such as allergies or sensitivities, cost, and how long the crown needs to last. Here are a few options:

• Ceramic: One of the major benefits of ceramic crowns is that they are biocompatible. This means that it's unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Ceramic crowns are also easy to match with the original teeth and offer durability and resistance to wear.
• Zirconia: This is a type of ceramic that is known for its durability and toughness. It is a great choice for a crown on an adult tooth, as it is resistant to cracking and chipping. 
• Composite resin: These crowns are crafted from a ceramic and plastic compound blend. Composite resin dental crowns are easy to mold and easy to match the shape and natural color of teeth. These crowns require minimal tooth preparation and are also cost-effective. 
• Acrylic: Temporary crowns are needed when the final crown needs to be created in a lab. These temporary crowns are most commonly made of acrylic materials. These crowns are easy to work with and can be fabricated quickly. It's a cost-effective way to protect a tooth temporarily. 

White crowns for kids in Bellevue WA: Complete services available at Expedition Pediatric Dentistry. 

Our care team is experienced with crowns and has options available for every type of child. From toddlers to teens, we have worked with crowns on baby teeth and adult teeth. Dr. Miller will discuss the process of preparing the tooth that needs a crown and go over the pros and cons of available materials. We aim to make your child as comfortable as possible throughout their entire appointment.

To learn more or request a white pediatric dental crown consultation, please contact Expedition Pediatric Dentistry in Bellevue, Washington today.