Pediatric Dental Crowns: When Kids Need Them & What to Expect

San Juan Capistrano, CA


Hearing that your child needs a crown can feel overwhelming—especially if the tooth is a baby tooth. Many parents search for pediatric dental crowns because they want to understand why a crown is needed, what types are available, and whether it’s really necessary.

Here’s a clear, parent-friendly guide to pediatric dental crowns and how they help protect your child’s smile.


What Are Pediatric Dental Crowns?

A pediatric dental crown is a small cap placed over a child’s tooth to restore strength, shape, and function after damage or decay. Crowns fully cover the tooth, offering more protection than a filling.

Pediatric crowns are commonly used for:

  • Large cavities

  • Broken or cracked baby teeth

  • Teeth weakened after pulp therapy

  • High-risk teeth prone to repeat decay

👉 Learn more about our Children’s Dentist in San Juan Capistrano.

Why Would a Child Need a Crown Instead of a Filling?

While fillings work well for small cavities, they may not hold up in baby teeth with:

  • Extensive decay

  • Thin enamel

  • High chewing pressure

Crowns provide full coverage, reducing the risk of the tooth breaking or needing repeat treatment.

👉 Learn more about Dental Fillings in San Juan Capistrano.

Types of Pediatric Dental Crowns

There are several crown options for children, depending on the tooth and location.

Types of Pediatric Dental Crowns

Stainless Steel
Very durable, back teeth
Silver appearance
White Crowns
Front teeth, cosmetic areas
Tooth-colored
Zirconia Crowns
Strong and natural-looking
Highly aesthetic

Are Pediatric Dental Crowns Safe?

Yes. Pediatric crowns have been used safely for decades. They are:

  • Biocompatible

  • Designed specifically for children’s teeth

  • Proven to reduce repeat decay

Crowns also help preserve space for permanent teeth by keeping baby teeth in place until they naturally fall out.

What Is the Pediatric Crown Procedure Like?

The process is usually completed in one visit:

  1. The tooth is numbed and cleaned

  2. Decay is removed

  3. The crown is fitted and secured

  4. Bite and comfort are checked

Most children tolerate the procedure very well, especially when performed by a pediatric-focused dental team.

Do Crowns on Baby Teeth Really Matter?

Yes. Baby teeth play an important role in:

  • Proper chewing and nutrition

  • Speech development

  • Guiding permanent teeth into place

Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to crowding or alignment issues later.

When Pediatric Dental Crowns Are Urgent

A crown may be needed quickly if your child has:

  • Tooth pain from deep decay

  • A broken or severely worn tooth

  • Infection requiring pulp therapy

👉 Learn more about our Emergency Dentist in San Juan Capistrano.

Pediatric Dental Crowns in South Orange County

At Kaban Dental, a children’s dentist in San Juan Capistrano we provide pediatric dental crowns for children across South Orange County, including San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. Our approach focuses on comfort, education, and long-term oral health—so parents feel confident and kids feel at ease.

📞 Call (949) 496-5585

🗓️ Schedule an appointment

Dr. Kelly Kaban

Dr. Kelly Kaban graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with her Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Environmental Biology and graduated from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry with honors in 2017.

Dr. Kaban infuses learning, nature, and fitness as ways to bring balance and peace of mind to her life.

https://www.kabandentalgroup.com/
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