review of the efficacy of stainless steel crowns in the restoration of primary molars

Stainless steel crown (SSC) is an extremely durable restoration with several clear-cut indications for use in primary teeth, including restoration after pulpotomy/pulpectomy, restoration of teeth with developmental defects, and large carious lesions involving multiple surfaces. The aim of this review article was to assess the efficacy of SSCs for the restoration of primary molars compared to other restorative materials.Review Report: Medline and ISI Web of Science were searched for scientific papers based on the use of SSCs in order to compare the efficacy and longevity of SSCs compared to other restorative materials from 1950 to 2010. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in English and human studies. Children with extensive decay, large lesions or multiple-surface lesions in primary molars have been treated with stainless steel crowns. Because of protection from future decay provided by their full-coverage feature and their increased durability and longevity, SSCs should be particularly considered in children who are treated under general anesthesia. The majority of clinical trials have recommended the use of SSCs in the restoration of primary molars due to successful treatment results and their efficacy and cost-effectiveness.