Why a crown on a milk tooth?
Back milk teeth stay until around 10–12 years of age. If one has a large cavity, or has had a root canal (pulpectomy), a filling may not last. A crown covers the whole tooth so the child can chew comfortably and the space for the adult tooth is kept.
The choices
Stainless-steel crowns are strong, quick to fit and long-lasting on back teeth. Tooth-coloured crowns, such as zirconia, look natural and are often chosen for front teeth. Dr Jain will tell you which suits your child’s tooth.
What the visit involves
The tooth is numbed and shaped slightly, and a ready-made crown of the right size is fitted, usually in the same visit.
Looking after it
Brush the crowned tooth like any other. Sticky sweets can loosen a crown, so keep them rare. Call the clinic if the crown feels loose or comes off.
Questions to ask Dr Jain
- Why a crown rather than a filling?
- Steel or tooth-coloured: which do you suggest, and why?
- Does the tooth need treatment first?
- What follow-up is needed?
The right restoration is a clinical decision. Ask about the alternatives for your child. Source: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: pediatric restorative dentistry.