Dental Care and Special Needs: Planning for Success

Posted on: 28 June 2016

Dental crowns are commonly used in pediatric dentistry even though baby teeth will eventually fall out. When it comes to pediatric dentistry, the purpose of the crowns is largely to make sure the teeth do not fall out before they are supposed to. As a parent, it is beneficial for you to take the time to learn more about pediatric dental crowns.

What Do Crowns Offer Children?

Dental crowns can enable a child to eat and speak in a functional manner. If a tooth is missing, especially in the front, a child can have a difficult time enunciating words. This can lead to the child being made fun of. A crown is also beneficial if a child has bad or broken teeth or if nerves have been removed.

How Much Will They Cost?

You need to decide whether the tooth needs a crown for health reasons or if it is just for cosmetic purposes because crowns are very expensive. A metal crown can cost on average $600 to $2,500 if you don't have insurance. Porcelain-fused-to-metal can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per tooth. Unfortunately, all-porcelain crowns are even higher and can range from $800 to $3,000 each.

What Are The Different Types of Crowns?

Stainless Steel Crowns: If your child needs a crown, or as it is sometimes called, a silver cap, stainless steel is usually used and can be fitted with one visit in the dentist's office. If the tooth is a front tooth, the crown can be painted to have the appearance of a white tooth. 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: When the metal and porcelain fuse as one unit, the crown provides strength and stability for the child. It also provides a natural look and will be successful in the long term. However, there is a higher risk for gingivitis in comparison to porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-gold crowns. The porcelain can easily chip or break.

All-Resin Crowns: Dating back to 1839, vulcanized rubber was the first resin material used for all-resin crowns. It is beneficial because it doesn't tend to wear down adjoining teeth. As technology has improved, several other types of resins have been used. One of all-resin crowns' major disadvantages is that they are prone to fractures compared to other types.

All-Ceramic Crowns: All-ceramic crowns aren't recommended for children until they have permanent teeth. All-ceramic crowns are a good choice for front teeth and people who might experience metal allergies.

There Is No Reason to Worry

In most cases, the child's teeth will still fall out naturally if a crown is used. However, if you have any concerns, it is best to speak with the dentist for an evaluation. You have the facts to make the decision and can choose a temporary crown if needed. Getting a crown is an expensive process, but your child is worth it. Talk to a pediatric dentist near you for more information about this process.