Crowns

What is a crown?

A crown is restoration that is placed on a tooth where a filling would be to large to work. Also called a cap, it covers the entire tooth. Your child's tooth is still underneath the tooth.

Why does my child need a crown?

If the decay is very extensive a filling will not work. If the filling is more then half the size of the tooth there is a very high chance it or the tooth will break with normal biting forces. For this reason, it is better to place a crown on top of the tooth. Usually, if your child needs a pulpotomy or a baby root canal, the tooth is best restored with a crown.

Are the crowns white or silver?

Both silver and white crowns are available. They both work equally well. Unlike silver fillings, silver crowns are made of stainless steel and non-toxic. Cosmetics is really the primary difference between the two.

Does the crown need to be taken out later?

No. The crown is cemented on top of the baby tooth. With proper care the tooth with the crown will fall out just as a normal baby tooth would.

How do I take care of the crown?

A tooth with a crown should be cared for like a tooth without one. Brushing twice a day and daily flossing will ensure the crown doesn't accumulate any plaque and maintain the health of the gums around the crown.

Will my child be soar after the crown?

The crowns do extend slightly below the gums. Some kids will experience mild irritation of their gums for 1-2 days as the gums heal. With good brushing, the gums will heal quickly around the crown and your child should not feel any discomfort after that. For the first day, there may be slight bleeding and swelling around the crown. Your child should still brush normally in the area. If they are soar, over the counter pain medications (Tylenol or Motrin) can be given.