270 - Efficacy of Stainless-Steel Crowns on Permanent Molars in Children

Purpose: Stainless-steel crowns (SSC) are often used as an interim restoration in pediatric patients with permanent molars that have large multi-surface caries, pulp-treatment, or developmental defects. There is limited research concerning the efficacy and longevity of SSCs on permanent molars. The aim of study is to increase clinical knowledge about the efficacy of stainless-steel crowns used as an interim restoration on permanent molars in children.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on SSCs completed on permanent teeth on patients aged 6-15 years old, from 2008 through 2018. A total of 269 SSCs (174 patients) fulfilled the inclusion criteria (initial placement of SSC on a molar tooth with at least 1 year of follow up) and were included in the study. The SSCs were graded as success or failure via analysis of radiographs (if available), clinical notes, and need for re-treatment, or extraction. Successful restorations are considered those that remain intact and/or are replaced by definitive full coverage crown when patient growth is complete. Failures are considered any restoration that resulted in replacement restoration, extraction, or exhibited inflammatory processes.

Results: The overall success-rate was 79.1% (CI: 95%). The mean(SD) of crown duration in the success group was 4.78(2.85)years and 3.93(2.73)years in the failure group. The most common reason for failure was replacement. There was significantly higher success-rate in upper molars compared to lower.

Conclusions: These results suggest the success rate of SSCs on permanent molars in children is 79.1% and is independent of clinic setting, patient age, and molar number.