A stainless steel crown, also known as a cap, completely covers a damaged tooth. Though crowns for permanent teeth are usually custom-made from porcelain, stainless steel crowns are the most popular choice for protecting baby teeth. That’s because they are:
- Cost-effective
- Durable enough to last the lifetime of the baby tooth
- Easy for the patient
Stainless steel crowns have been the standard of care for badly damaged baby teeth for many years.
Who Needs a Stainless Steel Crown?
Pediatric cavities are common because baby teeth have thin enamel, which makes them susceptible to decay. We can often repair a cavity with a white filling. If a baby tooth has decay on multiple surfaces, a stainless steel crown offers the best protection.
If decay reaches the interior of a baby tooth, it can cause infection. Then, we may perform a simple variation of a root canal treatment, called a pulpotomy, and place a stainless steel crown over the remaining tooth. Also, if the tooth has broken, a stainless steel crown will be indicated.
In each case, the stainless crown helps preserve the remaining tooth, reducing the risk of further decay or breakage. When the baby tooth comes out, the crown will come out with it.
Getting a Stainless Steel Crown
Placing a stainless steel crown usually takes only a few minutes. First, we will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and then smoothing and rounding it to ensure firm adhesion. Then, he’ll select a stainless steel crown that is the right shape and size for a snug fit. He’ll crimp the crown’s edges to fit the neck of tooth so food and bacteria can’t get in. Finally, he’ll fill it with dental cement and then place it over the tooth. After, your child will be able to eat and speak normally.
To schedule an appointment for your child, please call our office at (337) 984-3046. We can also call you; just fill out our appointment request form.