Use of Anterior Veneered Stainless Steel Crowns by Pediatric Dentists

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of anterior veneered stainless steel crowns (AVSSCs) by pediatric dentists. Methods: A questionnaire was sent to 2,600 active members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry with a follow-up request after 8 weeks. Respondents were asked about the utilization of AVSSCs in their practice and during their graduate training program. In addition, the participants were asked to rank, in order of preference, the type of restorations for treating primary anterior teeth, as well as factors that influenced their choice of treatment. Results: Among 849 respondents, 456 (51%) utilized AVSSCs in their practice; 187 (41%) selected AVSSCs as their first choice for the complete coverage for primary anterior teeth; and 278 (61%) selected extent of caries as the main factor that influenced their restoration choice. The respondents' major concern (73%) was durability of AVSSCs. Conclusion: The anterior veneered stainless steel crown is a common restoration to treat primary anterior teeth among pediatric dentists. (Pediatr Dent 2010;32:413-6) Received May 4, 2009 vertical bar Last Revision August 27, 2009 vertical bar Accepted August 31, 2009