Is a Dental Crown Necessary for Your Child’s Tooth?

As a parent, seeing your child in discomfort from a damaged or decayed tooth can be tough. Deciding on the best treatment path isn’t always easy, either. Pediatric dental crowns often come up as a treatment option, but how do you know if they’re truly necessary? 

At Pediatric Dentistry of Horizon West in Winter Garden, we value education, trust, and collaboration with families. Dr. Hany Azer and Dr. Serena specialize in pediatric dentistry and are here to guide you with compassionate, personalized care tailored just for your child.

When Does a Child Need a Dental Crown?

Children may need a dental crown when a tooth is so compromised that a simple filling won’t be enough to restore its function or strength. Crowns serve as protective covers that reinforce the tooth structure and prevent further issues. 

Since baby teeth play a vital role in speech development, chewing, and spacing for adult teeth, preserving them is key, even temporarily. We typically recommend a crown when:

• The tooth has a large cavity that can’t support a filling
• The dental pulp has been treated via pulpotomy or baby root canal
• The tooth is cracked or broken due to trauma or injury
• A molar has weakened enamel due to developmental defects

Dr. Azer and Dr. Serena will always walk you through the reasoning behind any recommended treatment, making sure you're involved at every step. Your presence during the appointment is not only welcomed, but encouraged to help your child feel safe and supported.

Types of Pediatric Crowns Available

Pediatric dental crowns come in several materials, each offering unique benefits depending on the tooth's location and the child’s needs. At Pediatric Dentistry of Horizon West, we only recommend crown types that align with your child’s comfort, durability requirements, and aesthetic preferences. Common options include:

• Stainless Steel Crowns: A reliable, long-lasting option for back teeth that undergo heavy biting forces.
• Tooth-Colored (Zirconia) Crowns: Ideal for front teeth where appearance matters, offering a natural-looking result.
• Resin Crowns: Often used for smaller repairs or temporary solutions, though less durable than other types.

Our office offers same-day crown services using advanced scanning and fabrication technology. This means fewer visits, less time missed from school, and faster relief for your child.

What Happens During the Crown Placement?

The process of placing a crown on your child’s tooth is gentle, structured, and designed to minimize anxiety. Our pediatric dental team is specially trained to work with children of all personalities and comfort levels. Here's what the general process includes:

• A thorough examination and digital X-rays to assess the extent of damage
• Local anesthesia to keep your child comfortable
• Shaping the tooth to make room for the crown
• Placement and adjustment of the crown for a perfect fit

Thanks to our same-day capabilities, many children receive their crowns in just one visit. This helps reduce stress for both child and parent. We also provide guidance for aftercare to ensure proper healing and long-term success.

How to Know If a Crown Is the Right Choice

Deciding on a dental crown can feel overwhelming. That’s where the team at Pediatric Dentistry of Horizon West comes in. We believe in offering transparent, expert-driven advice that prioritizes your child’s health and comfort. Here are a few signs that a crown is the right choice:

• Your child’s tooth has constant or recurring pain
• A previous filling is failing or breaking
• There are visible cracks or dark spots on the tooth
• Your child had a recent dental injury that affects chewing or bite

We're happy to answer all your questions and discuss every option available. Whether through modern pediatric techniques or compassionate one-on-one conversations, our team is dedicated to helping your family make informed, confident choices.

Schedule a Pediatric Crown Evaluation in Winter Garden

If your child may need a dental crown or you're simply unsure about their best treatment plan, don't wait. The caring team at Pediatric Dentistry of Horizon West is here to help. Located in Winter Garden, we make each visit as stress-free and comfortable as possible for your child, and for you. Call us today at (407) 554-4222 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Hany Azer or Dr. Serena. A healthier, happier smile could be just one visit away.