Does Your Child Need a Dental Crown?

When a child experiences tooth damage, decay, or developmental concerns, it’s natural for parents to wonder about the best path forward. In pediatric dentistry, one common solution for preserving a young tooth is a dental crown.

At Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Bethesda, we take a comprehensive and gentle approach to helping families understand when and why this treatment may be beneficial for their child’s overall health, not just their smile.

What Is a Pediatric Dental Crown?

A pediatric dental crown is a protective covering placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its function and appearance. Unlike fillings, which treat smaller areas of decay, crowns are used when a significant portion of the tooth is affected and needs reinforced protection.

At Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we use child-friendly techniques and materials to ensure comfort and long-term success. Depending on your child's needs, crowns may be made of:

• Stainless steel, durable and ideal for back molars, commonly used for primary (baby) teeth
• Tooth-colored ceramic materials, which are aesthetically-pleasing and are often used for front teeth

Each decision is made by considering the child’s developmental stage, oral habits, and overall health, honoring our belief that oral care should support the whole child.

When Might a Child Need a Dental Crown?

Not every cavity calls for a crown. However, certain conditions may require this type of restoration to protect your child’s tooth structure and reduce future treatment needs. Dr. Maddy Goodman and Dr. Heather Sholander carefully evaluate every case with compassion and clinical precision. Your child may benefit from a dental crown if they have:

• Deep and extensive cavities that cannot be effectively restored with a filling
• Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth from injury or grinding
• Developmental enamel defects like hypoplasia
• Had a pulpotomy (baby root canal) and need to protect the remaining tooth structure

Our integrative approach means we look beyond the immediate dental concern, considering habits, airway development, and long-term bite function when recommending any restorative procedure.

Are Dental Crowns Safe for Children?

Yes, dental crowns are a safe and effective way to preserve a child’s oral health, especially when applied by board-certified pediatric dentists with advanced training. Dr. Goodman and Dr. Sholander are experienced in treating children of all ages, including those with sensory sensitivities or special healthcare needs. 

With our sensory-friendly environment and calm, clear communication, kids feel at ease every step of the way. The benefits of pediatric choosing pediatric crowns include:

• Preventing early tooth loss that may affect speech or future orthodontic development
• Preserving proper space and alignment for permanent teeth
• Supporting healthy chewing and nutrition

At our office, our patient-centered care means your child’s comfort and long-term wellbeing are always at the heart of what we do.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Restoring a tooth with a stainless steel crown takes just one visit, while a ceramic crown typically requires two appointments at our office. We communicate clearly with families before treatment so you know exactly what to expect, no surprises, just compassionate care. During your child’s appointment:

• The affected tooth is gently cleaned and reshaped to ensure the proper fit
• For stainless steel crowns, a custom-fitted crown will be placed over the tooth and secured
• For ceramic crowns, a digital impression of your child’s tooth will be taken. Then, their crown will be made at a dental lab, and you’ll come back for a second visit to have the crown fitted and permanently attached to their tooth
• Once the crown is in place, we will review home care instructions together to ensure proper healing and hygiene

Our team embraces a holistic dental philosophy that focuses on supporting your child today, while thinking ahead to tomorrow. Whether your child needs a crown or you're simply exploring treatment options, we’re here to guide and support your family.

Schedule a Pediatric Dental Crown Consultation in Bethesda

If you're concerned your child may need a dental crown or want a second opinion with specialists who truly understand your family’s needs, we’re here to help. Call Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at (301) 664-4220 to schedule an appointment in Bethesda. With our warm, inclusive environment, functional care approach, and board-certified expertise, you can feel confident every smile is in good hands.