Pain? Same-day care.
callEmergencyarrow_forward
Dental Nation
Material guide

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel crowns are a recognised restorative option for primary and permanent molar teeth.

[1][2]

The short answer

Stainless steel crowns are among the restorative options reviewed for primary and permanent molar teeth.

[1][2]
Stainless Steel dental educational illustration

What is stainless steel used for in dentistry?

Names used for this crown type
NameMeaning
Stainless steel crownA restorative crown included in pediatric restorative guidance[1][2]
Preformed metal crownA term abbreviated as PMC in the guidance[1][2]

[1][2]

What is known about its use?

A literature review identified 61 papers on stainless steel crowns and esthetic preformed metal crowns, including clinical studies, case reports, reviews and laboratory reports.

[1][2]
Studies included in the review
Evidence typeCount
Papers meeting the review criteria61[1][2]
Clinical studies22[1][2]

[1][2]

Where are these crowns used?

The reviewed literature covered stainless steel and esthetic preformed metal crowns for primary and permanent molar teeth.

[1][2]

What other restorative materials are considered?

Pediatric restorative guidance also considers amalgam, composite, glass ionomer, resin-modified glass ionomer, compomers and anterior crowns.

[1][2]

What does this mean for a damaged tooth?

Restorative dentistry considers when treatment is needed as well as which technique and material are appropriate, because not every caries lesion requires restoration.

[1][2]

What are the safety and longevity points?

Dental metals have been studied for nickel release, including stainless steel crowns in artificial saliva. Restorations also have finite lifespans.

[1][2][3]

Frequently asked questions

Which teeth were covered in the stainless steel crown review?

The review included stainless steel crowns for primary and permanent molar teeth.

[1][2]

Keep reading

symptomTooth Pain After a FillingcompareCoverage extent for damaged front teeth