The friendly team at Tooth Dental have plenty of experience in helping fix children’s teeth with crowns. Give us a call on 3366 1737 – whether you’re in Ashgrove or anywhere else in Brisbane, we’d love to help!
What are stainless steel crowns and why does my child need one?
Stainless steel crowns are metal caps made from stainless steel, nickel and chrome.
They are used to treat molars (back teeth) that have either decayed or not formed properly (Hypomineralisation). They last longer than a traditional filling, and are a stronger way to repair the tooth.
The crowns are pre-made in the shape of the tooth and come in a range of sizes. We will choose a stainless steel crown that will fit over and cover your child’s entire tooth (the part that sits above the gum).
Crowns can help to protect the tooth from more decay and keep a space in the mouth for the adult tooth to grow into.
Before
After
What do they look like?
Stainless steel crowns are shiny and silver in appearance. They are placed on back molar teeth so often are less noticeable than you might think. Children are usually pleased to have a silver tooth. They are commonly called a pirate tooth, princess tooth, transformer tooth, silver cap or hat.
How long does a crown last?
The crown should stay in place until the baby tooth falls out naturally, as the adult tooth erupts.
In rare cases, the crown may need to be removed or replaced prior to the tooth falling out.
Procedure
- Local anaesthesia may or may not be required.
- The crown may be slotted over the tooth without extensive removal of decay, or if the crown does not sit well on the tooth, the tooth will be shaped to fit the crown.
- If nerve/root treatment of the tooth is required, local anaesthesia and extensive decay removal will be required prior to crown placement.
- Sometimes elastic bands are used to create a small space between the teeth This allows the crown to be properly seated, usually without shaping the tooth to fit the crown (see below image). These are usually positioned 12-24 hrs prior to crown placement.
What happens after?
The crown will feel tight on the tooth for the first couple of days. If you think your child needs it, provide painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (follow manufacturers recommendations of appropriate use and dosage).
Your child may also feel that the crown is uncomfortable at first and may not be able to fully close their teeth together. This usually settles within a few days.
How do I help my child look after the crown?
The crown should be treated like a normal tooth. Please make sure it is brushed twice daily along with the other teeth.