Silver Cap Fell off Child’s Tooth

What to Do If Your Child’s Silver Cap Falls Off If your child has had a silver crown (also known as a stainless steel crown) placed on a baby tooth, you already know it plays an important role in protecting teeth that are damaged by decay. But what happens if that crown falls off? First, don’t panic. Silver crowns on baby teeth can sometimes come loose. This may happen if the cement holding the crown weakens, if your child eats something sticky or hard, or if the tooth underneath changes shape as it continues to grow or resorb before falling out naturally. If the cap falls off, try to save it and call your child’s dentist right away. In some cases, the crown can be cleaned and re-cemented. If not, the dentist will determine whether a new crown is needed or if another treatment is best. Leaving the tooth unprotected is not a good idea, since it can cause sensitivity, pain, or allow decay to spread. In the meantime, keep the area clean by gently brushing and rinsing with water. Avoid giving your child sticky or hard foods until the tooth is treated. Remember, even though baby teeth are temporary, they play a big role in chewing, speech, and guiding permanent teeth into place. If your child’s silver crown falls off, prompt dental care will keep their smile healthy and comfortable.