When are Stainless Steel Crowns Necessary Instead of a Filling [Childrens Dentistry]

While baby teeth do not last forever and typically all fall out by the time a child is 13 years of age, it is important for children to take care of these temporary teeth and go to a childrens dentistry to ensure they are healthy. However, sometimes tooth decay and cavities can cause extreme harm to baby teeth. One tactic often used by pediatric dentists to address these issues is placing a stainless steel crown on the affected tooth.

Tooth decay in children

Children can experience tooth decay, or the destruction of tooth enamel, over time due to a diet high in sugar, insufficient fluoride consumption or poor oral hygiene. Initial signs of decay often include visible white spots on the teeth and possible tooth sensitivity. If allowed to continue, cavities form on the teeth as acids eat away at the teeth and create holes. Initially, these holes appear light brown in color. If plaque continues to build and the cavity is not immediately detected, it becomes even deeper and turn a darker brown or black.

Diagnosing cavities

Often, cavities cause pain to the affected tooth and sensitivity to very hot, cold or sweet foods and beverages. However, some people do not notice any symptoms, and young children may not be able to communicate their pain effectively. Dentists are often able to identify signs of tooth decay or cavities at during an exam or by taking an X-ray. It is a good idea to regularly make an appointment with a children dentistry to catch a cavity before it gets worse or to go in right away if noticing any symptoms.

Treating cavities at a childrens dentistry

If caught early on, a cavity can often be treated using a filling to patch the hole. This process involves numbing the mouth using a local anesthetic, removing decay with a dental drill and then filling in the cavity with a tooth-colored composite.

However, fillings cannot be used for teeth with very large or multiple cavities. In these situation, stainless crowns are often used instead. This option lasts longer than a filling and can be used on teeth where extensive decay has occurred. A stainless steel crown is not very aesthetically appealing, which is not always a concern for molars, situated in the back of the mouth. If a cavity forms on a visible front tooth, a plastic white facing can be attached instead.

Conclusion

Like permanent teeth, baby teeth are essential for speaking and chewing properly, and also prevent future overcrowding by acting as a placeholder for permanent teeth. For this reason, when cavities and decay affect a child’s baby tooth, it is important to explore possible actions to save the tooth rather than just remove it until an adult tooth grows in. If looking for a longer lasting option for dealing with severe tooth decay, a stainless steel crown placed at a childrens dentistry is one solution.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

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