What is a Crown?

Crowns, commonly known as veneers, are a procedure that encases the entire tooth like a cap. They are preferred for teeth with extensive tooth decay, multiple surfaces, or structural weakness.

Can They Be Applied to Primary Teeth?

Prefabricated crowns are available specifically for primary teeth. While they have evolved over time, they have been used in children since the 1950s. After the necessary preparation, crowns can be applied to both molars and incisors. Because they are prefabricated, they can be applied quickly without the need for impressions.

What Advantages Do They Have Over Fillings?

When applied to teeth with extensive tooth loss, such as root canal treatment or amputation, they are much longer-lasting than fillings. Because they mimic natural teeth, they are more compatible with the contact points of other teeth. They function during chewing and are more durable. They are made of tissue-friendly metals. Because they completely enclose the tooth, there is no risk of decay affecting any other surface of the tooth.

A Baby Tooth Will Loosen and Fall Out, So What About Crowns?

Because crowns are bonded to the teeth, they will fall out with the teeth when they are due. No additional procedures are necessary.

In What Situations Are Crowns Used?

1. Instead of fillings for decayed baby and permanent teeth after amputation or root canal treatment,
2. In the treatment of baby bottle tooth decay (early childhood cavities),
3. In the treatment of fractures caused by trauma,
4. In cases where the permanent teeth under the baby teeth have a missing germ,
5. In the treatment of defective teeth caused by genetic or environmental factors,
6. In the treatment of teeth with MIH,
7. In the protection and restoration of teeth that have lost material due to attrition, abrasion, or erosion, crowns are used.

Is There Only One Type of Crown for Baby Teeth?

No! There are dozens of different types of crowns, in terms of material, brand, and appearance. The most commonly used crowns in pediatric dentistry are:

Stainless steel crown: This is the oldest, most commonly used, and most durable crown type worldwide. Its application takes less time. Because it's made of metal, it's gray in color. Therefore, it's frequently used on back teeth.

Zirconium crowns: In recent years, with increasing aesthetic expectations in dental treatments, natural tooth-colored zirconium crowns have become popular. They are preferred for both incisors and molars. Their compatibility with oral tissues is excellent.