Everything You Need To Know About Stainless Steel Crowns
Posted on: 6 June 2016
Stainless steel crowns are not the most popular choice for a few different reasons, including their less natural appearance. But if a dentist has recommended crowns, it may be beneficial to learn more about stainless steel crowns before making any decisions.
What Are Stainless Steel Crowns?
The crowns are made of nickel, manganese, carbon, iron and several other metals. They are mostly used on babies and children. This is because they do not require a lot of the teeth to be filed down, and they are easier to get into a child's mouth than an adult. Typically, they will just fall out when the tooth they are on top of comes out to be replaced with a permanent tooth. Those children who have large lesions or extensive decay of their teeth are good candidates for stainless steel crowns.
Why Don't People Like Stainless Steel Crowns?
The biggest downside to stainless steel crowns is the appearance. The fact that they are steel makes it obvious that you have crowns. For a child, this could lead to being bullied and picked on at school because he or she has "funny looking teeth."
Why Stainless Steel Instead of Regular Crowns?
When a different type of crown other than stainless steel is used, it's often too large for the child's tooth. This can lead to breakage. When a crown breaks, leakage can occur and this can result in an infection. But the stainless steel crown stays put as it can be made the perfect size and greatly reduces the threat of a health threatening infection. If your dentist recommends a different type of crown, there is nothing wrong with asking why they are not recommending stainless steel or getting a second opinion.
What Are The Benefits?
The biggest benefit to stainless steel crowns is that they are easier to place on your child's teeth than any other type of crown. They are also cheaper, which can give a parent peace of mind as they are eventually going to fall out of your child's mouth anyway. Stainless steel crowns, as well as other crowns, give you an option other than just having the tooth (or teeth) pulled out.
Anything a Parent Should Know About Crowns in General?
It is important to keep in mind that a crown is not intended to prevent a tooth from becoming decayed. After your child gets stainless steel crowns, he or she will still need to practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent tooth decay.
For more information and options for tooth repair, like dental implants, talk with a dentist near you, such as Bradley T Piotrowski DDS MSD LLC.
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