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3601 Ayers Road | Millbury, OH 43447 Why do kids get silver teeth? It’s a question many parents ask when they notice their child smiling with a shiny metallic crown. These silver teeth, commonly known as stainless steel crowns, aren’t just for aesthetics—they serve a much more important dental purpose.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about why dentists use them, what causes kids to need them, and how you can prevent your child from ever needing one.
What Are Silver Teeth in Kids?
Silver teeth, or stainless steel crowns, are protective dental caps placed over damaged or decayed baby teeth. They’re especially common in pediatric dentistry and are designed to restore the tooth’s function until it naturally falls out.
These crowns are typically made from medical-grade stainless steel, which is durable, biocompatible, and resistant to corrosion. They’re considered one of the most effective solutions for saving severely damaged baby teeth.
Reason #1: Severe Tooth Decay
One of the top reasons children get silver teeth is because of major tooth decay. This often results from:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Frequent consumption of sugary snacks and drinks
- Lack of regular dental checkups
Why Fillings Aren’t Enough Sometimes
When decay penetrates deep into the tooth, simple fillings may not hold. Silver crowns provide full coverage, ensuring the tooth stays protected and functional until it’s naturally replaced by a permanent one.
Reason #2: Weakened Baby Teeth
Some children are born with underdeveloped or weakened enamel, making their teeth more susceptible to damage even with minor decay or trauma.
Conditions like enamel hypoplasia, which is sometimes inherited, can cause soft or brittle teeth that need full coverage protection—often provided by silver crowns.
Reason #3: Large Cavities on Back Molars
Molars are essential for chewing and grinding food. When cavities affect these back teeth, a crown provides better support than a filling alone.
Silver crowns wrap around the entire tooth, providing superior strength and long-term protection, especially in high-pressure chewing areas.
Reason #4: Early Childhood Caries (ECC)
ECC is a rapidly progressing form of tooth decay that affects children under the age of 6. It’s a major reason for pediatric dental visits and is often treated with stainless steel crowns.
Risk Factors: Diet, Hygiene, Genetics
- Frequent bottle feeding or nursing at night
- Infrequent brushing or no fluoride exposure
- Genetic predisposition to weak enamel
Reason #5: Cost-Effective Solution for Parents
Stainless steel crowns are more budget-friendly than white crowns or porcelain options. They’re often covered by public and private insurance plans, making them accessible for families.
Many insurance policies for children prioritize functionality over cosmetics, and silver crowns are often fully covered under these plans.
Reason #6: Long-Term Durability
These crowns are built to last. In most cases, a silver crown will remain intact and functional until the baby tooth falls out naturally, which could be years after placement.
Silver crowns act as shields against further decay, preventing additional dental procedures down the road.
Reason #7: Emergency Pediatric Dental Treatments
In emergency situations—like a broken tooth due to an accident—dentists may choose silver crowns because they can be placed quickly and with minimal preparation.
They’re reliable, quick to install, and offer immediate pain relief for children dealing with severe dental issues.
Are Silver Teeth Safe for Kids?
Stainless steel crowns used in dentistry are approved by the FDA and follow strict safety standards. They’re non-toxic and have been used safely for decades.
Myth: Silver teeth contain harmful metals.
Fact: They’re made of stainless steel that is safe and durable. There is no mercury involved, unlike in old amalgam fillings.
Do Silver Teeth Affect a Child’s Smile?
Some kids may feel self-conscious about having silver teeth. However, others embrace the shiny look—sometimes even calling them their “superhero teeth.”
Parents worried about appearance can ask about tooth-colored zirconia crowns, though these are more expensive and not always covered by insurance.
How to Prevent the Need for Silver Crowns
Daily Dental Hygiene
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Regular flossing
- Dental visits every 6 months
Diet Changes
Cut down on:
- Sugary snacks and drinks
- Nighttime bottles
- Sticky candies
Encourage:
- Crunchy vegetables
- Water as the main drink
FAQs About Kids Getting Silver Teeth
1. Are silver crowns painful to place?
No. Dentists use local anesthesia, and the procedure is usually quick and pain-free.
2. Do silver teeth fall out with baby teeth?
Yes. They’re designed to fall out naturally with the baby tooth.
3. Can you remove a silver crown early?
Generally, no. They’re meant to stay until the baby tooth is ready to fall out.
4. Will my child need silver teeth on permanent teeth too?
Not likely—if good oral hygiene is practiced, permanent teeth can remain cavity-free.
5. Do silver crowns contain mercury?
No, they do not. They’re made from stainless steel, which is completely safe.
Contact Walbridge Dental
Are you missing one or more teeth? We can help! The professionals at Walbridge Dental provide complete family dental care to families in the Millbury community. Contact us online to set up an appointment now or call us at 419-836-1033.
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