Pediatric Crowns
Types and uses of dental crowns designed for primary teeth in children.
Pediatric crowns are used to restore primary teeth that are too damaged for fillings. Stainless steel crowns (SSCs) are the most common — pre-formed metal caps that cover the entire tooth. They are durable, cost-effective, and require minimal tooth preparation. SSCs are the gold standard for restoring primary molars with extensive decay. Aesthetic alternatives include pre-veneered stainless steel crowns (metal with white facing), zirconia crowns (tooth-colored, strong), and strip crowns (composite resin shells) for front teeth. Zirconia crowns are gaining popularity for anterior teeth due to their natural appearance. These crowns remain until the primary tooth naturally falls out, then shed with it.