Are white crowns for kids durable?

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Are white crowns for kids durable?

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In the world of pediatric dentistry, white dental crowns have become an increasingly popular choice for parents looking to restore and protect their children's teeth. White crowns are made from materials such as zirconia or porcelain which closely resemble the natural color of teeth. This makes them blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. But the question that often arises is - how durable are white crowns for kids compared to the traditional stainless steel crowns?

While aesthetic appeal is driving the popularity of white crowns, durability remains a top concern when treating children's teeth that must withstand years of chewing, biting forces and continued growth and development of the jaws and smile. In this article, we'll delve deeper into the structure and longevity of white pediatric crowns and discuss how they compare to stainless steel crowns in terms of strength, wear resistance and survivability long-term.

Are white crowns for kids durable?

Durability of White Dental Crowns

When it comes to durability, white dental crowns for kids are surprisingly robust. They are crafted from high-quality ceramic materials that can withstand the chewing and biting forces. Moreover, with advancements in dental technology, the strength and durability of these crowns have significantly improved over the years. However, their longevity also depends on the care and maintenance they receive.

Factors Affecting the Durability of White Dental Crowns

Several factors can affect the durability of white dental crowns. These include the quality of the crown itself, the expertise of the dentist, the oral hygiene habits of the child, and their dietary habits. Regular dental check-ups are essential to ensure the crown remains in good condition. Additionally, avoiding hard, sticky, and sugary foods can also prolong the lifespan of the crown.

White Dental Crowns Vs. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel crowns have been the gold standard for durability in restoring the structure and function of damaged primary teeth. The metal composition and thickness of stainless steel crowns allows them to withstand biting pressures and chewing impact. They are nearly unbreakable and can last for many years if properly cared for. However, stainless steel crowns have a silvery metallic color that stands out prominently amid natural teeth. 

White ceramic crowns match natural teeth shade for shade, but because of the material that they’re constructed with, are more prone to chipping, cracking or breaking than steel. Still, materials like high-quality zirconia offer impressive longevity, abrasion resistance and structural reliability. New bonding techniques also allow dentists to achieve greater durability and strength in adhering the crown restoration to the prepared tooth. For kids' crowns, much depends on how well the child cares for their teeth and avoids chewing hard foods like ice or other tooth-breaking habits. 

Benefits of White Dental Crowns

White crowns offer both form and function when restoring damaged or decayed teeth in children. Made from porcelain, zirconia or ceramic materials, white crowns provide natural aesthetic appeal that mimics the look of healthy, beautiful teeth. This also builds self-confidence and positive self-image in kids, letting them smile brightly without unsightly metal showing through their teeth.

Beyond aesthetics, white crowns allow for more conservative tooth preparation which preserves more natural tooth structure underneath the restoration. This strengthens the crown’s retention and resistance to dislodging or falling out prematurely. White crowns also don’t interfere with proper chewing, biting or speaking functions the way traditional metallic crowns sometimes can. They provide evenly distributed occlusal pressure and slide smoothly against the opposing teeth.

The most advanced white crown materials like high-quality zirconia even provide impressive structural integrity, fracture toughness, wear resistance and longevity to protect the tooth despite harsh oral conditions. While not as indestructible as metal crowns, they can endure years of reliable service with proper oral care and regular dental checkups. New bonding techniques also give dentists more ability to strongly adhere white crowns onto weakened pediatric teeth.

Ultimately white crowns deliver the total package—ideal strength, durability, performance and cosmetics—that give children protective, natural-looking smiles. Combining the best modern technology with artistic craftsmanship, white crowns boost confidence during crucial social developmental years for kids in ways metallic restorations cannot.

Why Choose White Dental Crowns for Kids?

Despite the concerns about durability compared to ultra-sturdy stainless steel crowns, white dental crowns remain a favorite restoration choice for many pediatric dentists and parents for good reason. Chief among them is the excellent natural aesthetic appeal white crowns offer. Made from tooth-colored ceramic or zirconia, they blend in seamlessly next to surrounding teeth with matching shade and brightness. This gives children a beautifully restored smile without unsightly metallic crowns that can hamper self-confidence. 

White crowns are also less likely to cause allergic reactions sometimes seen in kids with metal restorations. Their biocompatible porcelain composition minimizes irritation in the mouth. Additionally, the conservative tooth preparation needed for white crowns leaves more leftover natural tooth structure underneath the restoration which adds to their structural stability and durability long-term. Ultimately white crowns deliver cosmetic, functional and psychological benefits that aid healthy development and happiness in children.

Schedule an Appointment with Kids Tooth Team Today!

Are you considering white dental crowns for your child? Or do you have more questions about their durability? Dr. Alex and the Kids Tooth Team are here to help. With our expertise and commitment to children's dental health, we can guide you in making the best decisions for your child's smile. Call us today at (512) 523-4774 to schedule an appointment in Buda, TX, or South Austin. Let us help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!

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