Pediatric Crowns

Pediatric Dental Crowns In Colorado Springs, CO

At Otter Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Colorado Springs, we know it’s never easy to hear that your child needs major dental work. But rest assured, if Dr. Ken Otterstedt recommends a pediatric crown, it’s because he truly believes it’s the best way to protect your child’s oral health, not just today, but in the long run.

Whether your child has a large cavity, a cracked tooth, or a baby tooth that needs reinforcement, pediatric dental crowns offer a reliable, durable solution. Our goal is to restore function and prevent future problems in a way that keeps your child smiling confidently.

Why Would a Child Need a Pediatric Crown?

Dr. Ken may recommend a pediatric crown when a tooth is too damaged to support a filling or if there’s a high risk of future breakdown. Some of the most common reasons include:

A large cavity that compromises the tooth’s strength.
Cracked or broken teeth from injury or grinding.
A tooth treated with a pulpotomy (baby root canal).
A tooth treated with a pulpotomy (baby root canal).
Children with high cavity risk who need added protection.

Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play a critical role in speech, chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into the right position. Pediatric dental crowns help preserve a baby tooth’s function until it naturally falls out.

Compassionate, Expert Care In Colorado Springs, CO

As a board-certified pediatric dentist in Colorado Springs with years of experience, including time as a Navy dentist and specialized training at Children’s Hospital Colorado, Dr. Ken is deeply committed to preserving your child’s dental health in a way that’s honest, compassionate, and personalized.

If your child needs a dental crown, we’ll answer all your questions, talk through every option, and make sure you both feel confident moving forward.

Benefits of Pediatric Dental Crowns For Children In Colorado Springs

While fillings and bonding are great options for minor decay and imperfections, pediatric dental crowns offer additional protection and long-term benefits for more severe damage. The benefits that Colorado Springs parents can expect are:

Strengthens and protects the tooth from further damage.
Preserves the natural tooth and its position in the mouth.
Restores chewing and speaking function.
Reduces the need for retreatment or early extraction.
Gives your child confidence with a healthy, restored smile.

Types of Pediatric Dental Crowns Available In Colorado Springs

Dr. Ken offers several pediatric crown options depending on your child’s age, the location of the tooth, and your family’s preferences:

Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs)

These are the most common pediatric dental crowns used for molars. They’re strong, affordable, and ideal for children who need durability and quick treatment.

Tooth-Colored Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns provide a natural-looking appearance and are often used for front teeth or for families in Colorado Springs who prefer a more aesthetic option. They’re strong, biocompatible, and metal-free.

Resin Pediatric Crowns

Less commonly used but still available, resin crowns are tooth-colored and more affordable than zirconia but not as durable over time.

How To Talk to Your Child About Getting A Crown

It’s natural for kids (and parents) to feel a little nervous before a dental procedure. Dr. Ken and our team in Colorado Springs are here to make the experience as stress-free and kid-friendly as possible.

Here are a few ways to talk about pediatric dental crowns with your child:

“Dr. Ken is going to put a little hard hat on your tooth to help protect it.”
“It’s like giving your tooth armor so it can stay strong.”
“You’ll still be able to eat, talk, and smile just like always!”

Dr. Ken will explain everything in gentle, age-appropriate language and take the time to make your child feel comfortable before, during, and after treatment.

Pediatric Dental Crowns FAQs for Parents

Learn more about pediatric dental crowns and how our dental team in Colorado Springs handles them.

Is it normal for kids to get crowns on their teeth?

Yes! Pediatric dental crowns are a common and effective treatment for children with large cavities or dental injuries. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about; it’s just a way to keep growing smiles healthy.

Why use crowns on baby teeth?

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play an important role in your child’s development, helping with speech, chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into place. A pediatric crown protects a damaged baby tooth and allows it to stay in the mouth until it’s naturally ready to come out.

Why use crowns instead of pulling a tooth?

Whenever possible, we prefer to save the natural tooth. Pulling a baby tooth too early can cause spacing issues, speech problems, and misalignment of the permanent teeth. A crown helps preserve function and maintain a healthy bite.

How are baby teeth prepared for pediatric crowns?

Dr. Ken gently removes any decay or damage from the tooth, shapes it to fit the crown, and then places the crown securely over it. The process is quick, comfortable, and done in a single visit in most cases.

How long do pediatric dental crowns last?

Pediatric crowns are designed to last until the baby tooth naturally falls out. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, they stay strong and functional for several years.

Are crowns painful for my child?

Not at all! We use gentle techniques and local anesthetic to ensure your child is completely comfortable during the procedure. Most kids do just fine and bounce back quickly afterward, especially with a little encouragement and a sticker or prize from our treasure chest!

Can my child get a filling instead of a crown?

It depends on how much of the tooth is affected. Small to moderate cavities can often be treated with a filling. But if the decay is extensive or the tooth is already weakened, a pediatric crown is a better long-term solution.

How much do pediatric dental crowns cost?

Costs vary based on the type of crown and whether insurance is involved. Stainless steel crowns are generally the most affordable. Most dental plans, including Medicaid and Tricare, cover crowns for children when medically necessary. We’re happy to provide estimates and help you understand your benefits.

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Crown Appointment Today

Whether your child has a cavity, a damaged tooth, or needs long-term protection, we’re here to help. Contact Otter Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Colorado Springs to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Ken and explore whether a pediatric crown is the right step.

Your child’s smile is in good hands, and we’ll be here every step of the way to support your family.