Dental Crowns for Kids – Hamilton, ON

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that we place over the entire portion of a tooth that is visible above the gumline. The purpose of a children’s dental crown is to strengthen and fortify a damaged tooth while protecting it from further harm. Crowns are often recommended in cases where chipped, cracked, broken, or decayed teeth cannot be repaired via more conservative means, such as fillings.

Crowns can be made of various materials. In our office, we favor stainless steel crowns for primary teeth because they are strong and durable. Tooth-colored crown materials are often more suitable for permanent teeth.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

To start the crown process, we must first prepare the tooth that will receive the restoration. Often, this involves removing a bit of its enamel. If your child is nervous about this part of the procedure, we may administer sedation to help them remain calm and relaxed.

Next, we may take impressions so a laboratory can design a custom crown for your child. Or, we may simply place a pre-made stainless steel crown. Pre-made crowns come in a variety of sizes, so we should be able to find one that fits your child comfortably and that will serve them well until the baby tooth is ready to fall out.

The Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown

Dental crowns for kids can have multiple benefits:

• Preventing extraction. By preventing the premature extraction of baby teeth, we can support healthy development of your child’s adult dentition. This may prevent the need for orthodontia and other expensive treatments in the future.
• Increased comfort. A crown can protect a damaged tooth and restore its function, so your child can eat a variety of foods with ease. When they are not distracted by dental pain, your child may perform better in school and exhibit a calmer demeanor overall.
• Easy maintenance. Taking care of a stainless steel crown is easy. Thorough oral hygiene and routine checkups are always important!

Understanding the Cost of Dental Crowns

There are various factors you can expect your child’s pediatric dentist to go over with you when discussing the cost of dental crowns in Hamilton. Your child’s case is unique, so attempting to provide any kind of estimate before an examination is provided is impossible. Once we have a chance to meet with you and your child, you can expect us to deliver a projected cost as well as additional information on ways you can save. Whether it’s with your dental insurance or through an alternative form of payment, we’re here to help.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dental Crowns

While meeting with Dr. Rullo to discuss your child’s need for dental crowns, he will go over the various factors that determine the cost of treatment, such as:

• The type of material that will be used to create the crown(s). In our office, we primarily use stainless steel for primary teeth but can also use tooth-colored options for permanent teeth.
• The severity of the damage or decay, and whether your child needs additional preliminary treatment beforehand (i.e., pulp therapy).

While we know you want what is best for your child, we also understand that finding ways to save is important. However, inquiring about cheaper materials will not necessarily lend the best or longest-lasting results. You can expect we will go over this detail during your child’s appointment.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Crowns?

The good news is that if you plan to use your dental insurance, there’s a good chance your insurer will help cover a portion of the total cost. Generally, dental crowns are considered a major restorative service, which means many companies will cover up to 50% of the cost. Of course, they will determine if you’ve first met your deductible and if there are funds remaining as part of your annual maximum before agreeing to pay a specific portion.

No matter what they decide, you can expect us to work on your behalf and help maximize your available benefits.

Other Options for Making Dental Crowns Affordable

At Hamilton Pediatric Dental Care, we know not everyone has dental insurance, which is why we also partner with Healthy Smiles Ontario. If your child is covered as part of the program, you can bring them to our dental practice for high-quality, affordable oral healthcare.

Dr. Rullo follows their fee guide, and the program will typically cover all preventive and emergency treatments as well as other essential services.