Stainless Steel Crowns (SSC) at Riverside Dental Spa

What is a Stainless Steel Crown?

A stainless steel crown (SSC) is a durable cap that fits over a tooth. Although it resembles a natural tooth in shape, it is silver in colour. We like to refer to it as a robot tooth, pirate tooth, or princess tooth, depending on the context.

Why Do We Use Stainless Steel Crowns?

We recommend stainless steel crowns in the following situations:

• Extensive Decay: If a deciduous (baby) molar has significant caries (decay).
• Endodontic Treatment: When a deciduous molar needs nerve treatment.
• Enamel Hypoplasia: If a deciduous molar shows signs of moderate to severe enamel hypoplasia, a condition where the enamel is underdeveloped and weaker than usual.

Stainless steel crowns help preserve the tooth and maintain space. Losing a deciduous tooth prematurely might increase the need for future orthodontic treatment once the permanent (adult) tooth erupts.

When Are Stainless Steel Crowns Placed?

We typically place stainless steel crowns on children aged 3 to 10 years, based on recommendations from your dental professional.

Who Places Stainless Steel Crowns?

At Riverside Dental Spa, our Oral Health Therapist places stainless steel crowns for children. If your child needs a crown and is very anxious or requires extensive dental work, we might refer them to a Paediatric Dentist.

How Are Stainless Steel Crowns Placed?

The procedure to place a stainless steel crown is usually quick. However, if additional treatments, such as nerve treatment, are needed, it might take up to 60 minutes.

How Long Do Stainless Steel Crowns Last?

A stainless steel crown will remain in place until the deciduous tooth naturally exfoliates.

If you have any questions about stainless steel crowns, please contact our friendly team at Riverside Dental Spa on 4323 4323.