Do Children Get Dental Crowns If They Still Have Their Baby Teeth?

March 24, 2025

Dental crowns are an excellent way to restore broken or damaged teeth that can’t be fixed with other means, such as dental bonding or fillings. However, crowns are often associated with adult patients, not children.

Many parents don’t realize that children can actually get dental crowns, even if they have their baby teeth. Here’s what to know about children and dental crowns when it comes to restorative dentistry and primary teeth.

When Are Crowns Needed for Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth might need crowns for several reasons, primarily to ensure oral health and proper development. Children might need dental crowns if they have:

Severe tooth decay. Children are prone to cavities due to consuming foods and drinks high in sugar and not cleaning their teeth effectively. When decay is extensive, and a filling isn’t sufficient, a crown may be recommended to preserve the tooth [1].

Broken or cracked teeth. Kids can easily injure their teeth during play. When a break or crack affects the functionality of a tooth, a crown might be necessary to restore it.

Developmental defects. Some children are born with enamel defects or other dental conditions requiring more substantial restoration than routine fillings.

Root canal treatment. If a child requires a root canal on a baby tooth to treat an infection or deep decay, a crown may be placed afterward to protect the restored tooth.

Why Preserve Baby Teeth?

While baby teeth eventually fall out, they play crucial roles in a child’s development and oral health. Primary teeth hold the space for permanent teeth, guiding them into the correct position [2].

Healthy teeth are also essential for proper chewing and speech development. By addressing issues like decay and damage, crowns help prevent discomfort and support a healthy smile for your growing child.

What Happens During a Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a crown on a child’s tooth involves just a few steps:

Consultation and exam. Your child’s dentist will first examine the tooth and determine if a crown is necessary. If a crown is needed, the dentist will take measurements of the tooth to have a custom crown made for your child’s smile. If needed, your child may have a temporary crown placed while waiting for the permanent one [3].
Preparation. After the crown is ready, you’ll need to bring your child back to the dentist to have the crown placed. The procedure involves numbing the area to prevent discomfort. The dentist will then prepare the tooth, removing decay or damaged parts.
Fitting and placement. The custom crown will be placed and adjusted for the perfect fit over the treated tooth. Cement is used to set the crown for a permanent restoration.

Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

Dental crowns can be a way for children to keep their natural teeth, even baby teeth, when they have been affected by decay or other types of damage. So, if your child’s dentist says they would benefit from a crown to restore a tooth, know that this procedure can help keep your child’s smile healthy.