White Crowns for Children in Kansas City
Pediatric Zirconia Crowns Designed for Strength, Function, and Natural Smiles
At Root Holistic Pediatric Dentistry, crowns are recommended when a child's tooth needs more protection than a filling can provide. In pediatric dentistry, crowns are most often used after extensive decay, fractures, or nerve treatment, where long-term strength and sealing are essential. While many parents are familiar with crowns in adult dentistry, pediatric white crowns are fundamentally different in both design and purpose.
We primarily offer white pediatric zirconia crowns, which are prefabricated crowns designed specifically for children's teeth. These are not the same as custom adult zirconia crowns used in cosmetic dentistry. Pediatric zirconia (white) crowns are engineered to fit smaller teeth, withstand chewing forces, and restore function while also providing a natural, tooth-colored appearance. Stainless steel crowns remain a reliable option in certain situations, and we believe parents should understand the benefits and limitations of each choice.
What Are Pediatric White (Zirconia) Crowns?
Pediatric white crowns are prefabricated zirconia crowns made from a strong ceramic material called zirconium dioxide. Unlike adult crowns, which are custom-milled in a dental laboratory, pediatric zirconia crowns come in standardized shapes and sizes that are carefully selected and fitted to a child's tooth.
White crowns are designed to:
- Fully cover and protect weakened baby teeth
- Restore proper chewing and function
- Resist wear, staining, and chipping
- Provide a natural, white appearance
Because pediatric zirconia crowns are prefabricated, placement requires precise tooth preparation and careful technique. When placed correctly by a pediatric dentist, white crowns offer excellent durability and aesthetics for primary teeth that must remain functional until they naturally fall out.
Why Crowns Matter for Baby Teeth
It's a common misconception that baby teeth are less important because they will eventually be lost. In reality, primary teeth play a critical role in:
- Holding space for permanent teeth
- Supporting healthy jaw growth and alignment
- Chewing and proper nutrition
- Speech development
When a baby tooth is significantly decayed or structurally compromised, a crown helps preserve the tooth's function and prevents recurrent decay or premature tooth loss. Pediatric dentists are trained to evaluate when a white crown or stainless steel crown is truly necessary and how to place it in a way that supports long-term oral health.
White Zirconia Crowns vs. Stainless Steel Crowns
We offer both white zirconia crowns and stainless steel crowns, and each has appropriate indications depending on the tooth and clinical situation. Also, important note Ozone is used on all teeth that are prepared for crowns with the intention to decrease bacterial load and increase success of treatment!
White Zirconia Crowns (White Crowns)
Pros:
- Tooth-colored and highly aesthetic
- Strong and durable
- Resistant to staining and plaque accumulation
- Well tolerated by surrounding gum tissue
Considerations:
- Require precise placement and moisture control
- Less forgiving during placement
- Typically higher cost than stainless steel crowns
In our professional experience, white zirconia crowns are often the preferred option, particularly when aesthetics, gum health, and a metal-free restoration are priorities.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Pros:
- Extremely durable and time-tested
- More forgiving during placement
- Often the most economical crown option
- Highly reliable in certain clinical situations
Considerations:
- Silver in color and visible when smiling
- Not tooth-colored
- Some families prefer a metal-free alternative when appropriate
Stainless steel crowns remain a valuable and effective option in pediatric dentistry, especially in cases where durability, efficiency, and a positive patient experience are the primary considerations.
A Pediatric-Specialist Approach to Crown Selection
Choosing the right crown is not about a one-size-fits-all solution. As a pediatric dentist with additional hospital-based specialty training, we consider:
- The extent of decay or damage
- Your child's age and cooperation level
- Bite forces and chewing habits
- Long-term function and development
- Parent preferences and goals
While white zirconia crowns are frequently our preferred choice, we believe in transparent conversations and individualized recommendations. Our goal is always to protect your child's tooth, restore function, and support healthy growth—not to push a specific material.
Long-Term Health, Function, and Confidence
A well-placed pediatric white crown does more than restore a tooth—it helps a child chew comfortably, smile confidently, and avoid repeated dental treatment. By using materials designed specifically for children and applying pediatric-focused techniques, we aim to provide restorations that last until the tooth is naturally lost.
At Root Holistic Pediatric Dentistry, we combine evidence-based materials with a child-centered approach to care, helping families make informed decisions that support both oral health and overall well-being.