Sometimes a cavity is too large for a standard filling, especially in back molars that handle major chewing. When extra strength is needed, stainless steel crowns provide a dependable solution that safeguards your child’s tooth until it naturally falls out.
What Are Stainless Steel Crowns?
A stainless steel crown is a pre-made, tooth-shaped cap that fits securely over a damaged baby molar. These crowns are incredibly strong and ideal for restoring teeth affected by severe decay, fractures, or after procedures like pulpotomies.
Why Stainless Steel Crowns Are Ideal for Children
Parents are often surprised to learn how beneficial these crowns are:
- Exceptional durability: They stand up to chewing forces better than large fillings.
- Full-coverage protection: They seal the entire tooth, stopping decay from coming back.
- Comfortable and reliable: Once placed, they require no special care.
- Time-tested: Stainless steel crowns have been used safely in pediatric dentistry for decades.
When We Recommend Them
A crown may be recommended when:
- A cavity is too extensive for a filling
- The tooth has undergone a pulpotomy
- The tooth is cracked or weakened
- Your child has a higher risk of recurrent decay
What Parents Can Expect
The crown placement is a straightforward, comfortable visit:
- The tooth is numbed and shaped to fit the crown.
- The crown is selected, customized, and placed over the tooth.
- It is cemented securely so your child can bite and chew comfortably.
Your child’s crown will function like a regular tooth and will come out naturally when the baby tooth is ready to fall out.