What is a zirconia crown?
A zirconia crown is a pre-formed, tooth-colored cap made from a very strong ceramic. When a baby tooth has decay that is too large for a filling, the dentist removes the decay, shapes the tooth, and fits a zirconia crown over it. The crown covers the whole tooth and protects it from further breakdown.
Why save a baby tooth?
Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth, help children chew and speak clearly, and support healthy jaw growth. Some back baby teeth stay in the mouth until age 10 to 12, so protecting them matters.
Benefits of zirconia crowns
- Natural, white appearance that blends with the other teeth
- Very durable, made for children's chewing forces
- Smooth surface that is gentle on the gums
- Covers the whole tooth to protect against new decay
Zirconia vs. stainless steel crowns
Both crowns protect the tooth well. Zirconia crowns look like natural teeth; stainless steel crowns are silver and can be a good choice for back teeth. Your dentist will recommend the best option for each tooth.
Caring for your child's crowns
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss between teeth, and limit sticky and sugary snacks. Keep up with regular check-ups so the crowns and gums stay healthy.
Where we provide white (zirconia) crowns
littleGRINS pediatric dentists provide white (zirconia) crowns under sedation at EMU Health in Glendale / Ridgewood, Queens, South Brooklyn Health in Coney Island, Brooklyn, Queens Surgical Center in Flushing, Queens, and Advanced Surgery Center in Pearl River, Rockland County. Families come to us from across New York City and Rockland County.
Medically reviewed by the littleGRINS pediatric dental team. This page is general information and does not replace an exam.