Posterior preveneered stainless steel crowns: clinical performance after three years.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of posterior preveneered stainless steel crowns after three years. METHODS: NuSmile crowns and Kinder Krowns were randomly allocated on paired molars using a split-mouth design. Variables such as fracture, wear, gingival health, and esthetics were recorded. (P<.05). RESULTS: Statistical analysis was completed on 34 paired crowns in 14 children. After three years, 53 percent of crowns were fracture free compared to 81 percent at one year. There was minimal esthetic impact for most fractures due to the location of the veneer fracture, but five crowns had extensive fracture. No difference was reported in the clinical performance between the two crown types. Fracture was more likely to occur where the adjacent tooth was missing. Parents reported a satisfaction rating of 8.3 out of 10. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical performance of both crown types was similar and successful for three years. Facing fracture occurred in 47 percent of crowns but had minimal impact on the esthetic value or parental satisfaction in the majority of cases. These crowns offer an esthetic alternative to the traditional stainless steel crown, but parents should be alerted to the possibility of veneer loss over time.