Stainless Steel Crowns

Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs) have been a very successful treatment modality in pediatric dentistry.  SSCs are prefabricated that cover the entire tooth and protect it from further decay. They can be used on primary (baby) teeth in the back of the mouth or even on permanent (adult) molars as a temporary measure. Stainless Steel Crowns, while they appear silver, are actually composed of a combination of nickel, chromium, and iron. They contain no mercury and are similar to the material used for braces. SSCs may need to be placed on back teeth due to cavities seen on multiple surfaces of the tooth for additional protection. The SSCs have more strength and durability than composite fillings or tooth-colored crowns. However, bacteria can still travel underneath these crowns, which may lead to eventual tooth loss. Treating the tooth with a restoration is still the highest recommendation.

Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (Fancy Crowns)

Porcelain fused to metal crowns may be needed for decay that form on front baby teeth and they are not permanent. Once the primary tooth is removed, the crown will also be come out with the baby tooth.