Evaluation of Parents and Child Satisfaction Toward Primary Molar Restoration with Preformed Metal Crowns and Its Impact on Child Bullying

<b>Objective:</b> This study aimed to assess the psychosocial impact of stainless steel crowns (SSCs) among primary school children in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, focusing on bullying experiences, child satisfaction, and parental perception. <b>Methods:</b> A cross-sectional survey was conducted in June 2025 among 123 children (mean age 7.8 years; 52% male) from two randomly selected schools. Schools were chosen using simple random sampling from a Ministry of Education-approved list. All children aged 6-10 years with at least one SSC placed for six months or more were eligible. A validated, self-administered questionnaire completed by children and their parents assessed bullying related to SSCs, satisfaction with the crown's appearance, and perceived impact. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression to evaluate associations between variables (<i>p</i> < 0.05). <b>Results:</b> Bullying was reported by 39.0% of children, primarily verbal (58.1%), followed by social exclusion (29.1%). Although gender differences in bullying were not statistically significant (<i>p</i> = 0.829), boys more often reported nickname-based teasing (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Only 35.0% of children were satisfied with the crown's shape and 29.3% with its color. Nearly half (48.8%) felt uncomfortable when asked about it. In contrast, parental satisfaction was higher (69.1%), though only 42.3% believed their child had fully accepted the crown. <b>Conclusions:</b> While SSCs are clinically effective and accepted by most parents, a notable proportion of children experience bullying and aesthetic dissatisfaction. These findings highlight the need for child-centered care and consideration of esthetic alternatives.