When a dentist mentions that a child needs a crown, many parents have the same immediate question: "Are dental crowns permanent for children?" It is a valid concern. After all, most of us associate crowns with adult dentistry and permanent teeth.
At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that hearing your child needs a restorative procedure can be stressful. However, pediatric crowns are a standard, highly effective way to save a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. Whether you are looking for a trusted pediatric dentist in Des Plaines or simply researching options for your little one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about "permanent" vs. temporary solutions in pediatric dental care.
A dental crown is a "cap" shaped like a tooth that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. In adults, crowns are intended to last decades. In children, the definition of "permanent" is a bit different.
For a child, a crown is permanent in the sense that it stays on the tooth until that tooth naturally falls out to make room for an adult tooth. At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we use crowns when a simple filling isn't enough to support the remaining tooth structure.
A common misconception is that because baby teeth eventually fall out, they aren't worth saving. However, baby teeth serve vital roles:
If a baby tooth is lost too early, the surrounding teeth may shift into the empty space, causing significant orthodontic issues later. This is why your pediatric dentist in Des Plaines will often recommend a crown over an extraction.
When you visit Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we discuss the best material for your child's specific needs. The "permanence" and durability of the restoration often depend on the material used.
These are the most common types of crowns used in pediatric dentistry. They are incredibly durable, cost-effective, and provide a "permanent" seal against further decay until the baby tooth sheds. They are most often used on back molars, where strength is more important than aesthetics.
Zirconia crowns are made of a hard ceramic material that mimics the look of natural teeth. If your child needs a crown on a front tooth or a visible premolar, a pediatric dentist in Des Plaines may suggest zirconia for a more natural smile. They are metal-free and highly resistant to chipping.
These are often used for front teeth. The dentist uses a clear plastic form filled with tooth colored composite resin. While they look great, they can be more prone to chipping than stainless steel or zirconia.
We know that "dentist" can be a scary word for kids. That is why Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry focuses on a gentle, child-friendly environment.
So, back to the big question: Are they permanent?
In pediatric terms, a crown is considered successful if it lasts until the tooth falls out naturally. This usually happens between the ages of 6 and 12, depending on which tooth is crowned. Because the crown is bonded to the baby tooth, it will come out when the tooth root dissolves and the tooth sheds.
At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we see these crowns last anywhere from 3 to 10 years without needing replacement, provided the child maintains good oral hygiene.
To ensure the crown stays "permanent" until the tooth is ready to fall out, follow these tips from your pediatric dentist in Des Plaines:
The area is numbed during the procedure, so your child should feel no pain. There might be some mild gum sensitivity for a day or two after the appointment.
While rare, a crown can come loose if the child eats very sticky foods or sustains an injury. If a crown falls off, call your pediatric dentist in Des Plaines immediately to have it recemented.
Yes. If a permanent tooth is damaged before a child is fully grown, we may place a "long-term temporary" crown. We wait until the jaw has finished growing (usually late teens) before placing a final, adult porcelain crown.
Costs vary based on the material (stainless steel vs. zirconia). Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of stainless steel crowns because they are considered a necessary restorative treatment.
If the cavity is too large, a filling won't have enough natural tooth structure to hold onto. In these cases, a filling is likely to break or fall out. A crown provides 360-degree protection for the tooth.
At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in making restorative care a positive experience. We believe that every child deserves a healthy, functional smile that boosts their confidence.
If you are looking for a compassionate pediatric dentist in Des Plaines, look no further. We use the latest technology and child-focused techniques to ensure your little one leaves our office with a smile.
Is your child complaining of tooth pain, or is it time for a checkup? Contact Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule your consultation with a premier pediatric dentist in Des Plaines. We are here to help your child achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles!
Get top-quality dental care in Des Plaines, IL—book an appointment
with our experienced dentists at Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry.
(224) 580-2007
