Crowns

Crowns for Kids: Restoring Smiles with Confidence and Care

Durable, Safe, and Aesthetic Options at Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics

At Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics, we know how important it is for children to have healthy, strong teeth—especially after dealing with tooth decay or damage. When cavities are too large for fillings, dental crowns offer an effective and lasting solution.

We offer two of the most trusted and widely used crown options in pediatric dentistry: NuSmile crowns and stainless steel crowns (SSCs). Both options protect and restore primary teeth, helping your child chew, speak, and smile with confidence.

NuSmile Crowns: Strong Protection with a Natural Look

NuSmile crowns are a popular choice for restoring front teeth. Designed specifically for children, these crowns combine durability with an attractive, tooth-colored appearance—making them a great option when aesthetics matter.

Why Choose NuSmile Crowns?

NuSmile crowns are ideal for treating decay in baby teeth, especially in the front. Here’s what makes them a great choice:

• Strong & Reliable: Built with a surgical-grade steel base for durability.
• Natural Appearance: Covered with a white porcelain face that blends in with your child’s natural teeth.
• Versatile Use: Primarily used on front teeth, but can be used on back teeth upon request.

These crowns fully cover the damaged tooth, protecting it from further decay while preserving your child’s smile. However, it's worth noting that the porcelain coating can chip if your child frequently grinds their teeth or chews on hard objects. Even if that happens, the crown will still function properly—it just may not look as smooth.

What to Expect During the NuSmile Crown Procedure

The process is designed with your child’s comfort in mind:

1. Initial Evaluation: Our pediatric dentist will assess your child’s tooth to determine if a NuSmile crown is the best option.
2. Sedation or Nitrous Oxide: To keep your child calm, we may use laughing gas or mild sedation.
3. Decay Removal: The affected area is gently cleaned and shaped, and a pulpotomy (baby tooth root treatment) may be done if necessary.
4. Crown Fitting: A crown is selected to match the size and shape of your child’s tooth.
5. Bonding: The crown is cemented in place to provide a secure and long-lasting fit.

NuSmile crowns are most commonly used in children ages 1–6 with significant decay in their front teeth that still have several years before falling out naturally.

Stainless Steel Crowns: Long-Lasting Protection for Back Teeth

Stainless steel crowns (SSCs) are the go-to solution for restoring severely decayed back teeth. They’re incredibly strong, budget-friendly, and designed to last until the baby tooth naturally falls out.

Why Choose Stainless Steel Crowns?

SSCs are often recommended when a tooth has extensive decay or when multiple teeth are affected. They offer:

• Full Coverage: The entire tooth is protected from future decay.
• Exceptional Durability: These crowns are made to withstand chewing and grinding.
• Efficient Treatment: The process is quick and highly effective, which is helpful for young or anxious children.

While stainless steel crowns aren’t tooth-colored, they’re placed on back teeth—where they aren’t typically visible—and remain the gold standard for strength and longevity.

What to Expect During the SSC Procedure

The steps are similar to those for NuSmile crowns:

1. Dental Evaluation: We assess the affected tooth and determine if a crown is necessary.
2. Sedation or Laughing Gas: To ensure a calm and comfortable visit, we may use sedation depending on your child’s needs.
3. Tooth Preparation: Decay is removed, and a pulpotomy or pulpectomy may be performed if needed.
4. Crown Placement: A stainless steel crown is selected, adjusted, and fitted over the prepared tooth.
5. Bonding: The crown is cemented securely using dental adhesive for long-term success.

SSCs are especially helpful for kids who have deep decay on their molars or who are more prone to cavities between their teeth.

Why Choose Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics for Pediatric Crowns?

At Kids Rock, your child’s comfort and care always come first. Our friendly, experienced team takes time to explain your options, ease your child’s nerves, and make every appointment as smooth as possible.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• 🧒 Pediatric Expertise: Our dentists specialize in working with children of all ages and needs.
• 💙 Compassionate Care: We create a warm, welcoming environment that puts kids and parents at ease.
• 🦷 Advanced Techniques: We use the latest tools and materials for the safest and most effective treatment.
• 💬 Clear Communication: You’ll always know what’s happening—and why.

Let’s Restore Your Child’s Smile—Together

Whether your child needs a NuSmile crown for a front tooth or a stainless steel crown for a back tooth, we’re here to help. Our goal is to restore your child’s oral health while making the experience as positive and stress-free as possible.

📅 Schedule a consultation today at Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics in Colorado Springs. Let’s work together to give your child a healthy, confident smile that lasts!