Stainless Steel Crowns Versus Composite Restoration in The Primary Dentition and Decision-Making in Clinical Practice

Abstract Dental caries remains the most prevalent chronic disease affecting the paediatric population worldwide affecting 621 million children with primary teeth. Acid-producing bacteria cause it in the presence of fermentable carbohydrates. If left untreated dental caries in children can severely impact the oral health as well as the general well-being of the child. Impaired speech and Difficulty in eating due to pain and infection are among the immediate consequences. It may also cause long-term effects such as compromised growth and development, increased risk of dental caries in permanent teeth and even poor academic performance. It is important to treat and restore severely damaged teeth for the preservation of healthy primary dentition. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the use of prefabricated full-coverage restorations on large or multi-surface cavitated lesions for primary teeth. Various restorative materials are used to treat various primary teeth after a pulpectomy procedure. Stainless steel crowns have been commonly used in paediatric dentistry since their introduction in 1950 and continue to be a feasible choice to restore primary teeth with extensive caries after pulpectomy. Stainless steel crowns have been reported to be highly durable and cost-effective. However, the metallic colour is of concern for many parents and children. Composite resin restoration (CRRs) is another popular choice and is preferred over traditional stainless-steel crowns due to their superior aesthetics. However, they are technique-sensitive and require a longer time for placements. This narrative review aims to focus on the restoration done using stainless steel crown and composite resin restoration and their comparison in terms of durability aesthetics and functional success.