Outcomes of dental procedures performed on children under general anesthesia

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the integrity and longevity of restorative and pulpal procedures performed on primary teeth under general anesthesia (GA). Fifty-four children, who received comprehensive dental treatment under general anesthesia between 1993 and 1995, were included. The postoperative examination period ranged from 6 to 27 months. Children were examined and the quality of the restorations were recorded and evaluated. Behavior problems and inability to cooperate were the main reasons for treatment under GA. Results showed that restoration of posterior teeth with stainless steel crowns (SSC) were more successful (95.5%) when compared to amalgam or composite restorations (50%). In the anterior teeth, strip crowns had a success rate similar to that of Class III, IV and V composite resin materials. Pulpotomies showed an extremely high rate of success (97.1%), while sealants were retained 68.3% of the time. In conclusion, SSC are more likely to be successful and last longer than multisurface amalgam or composite restorations in children treated under general anesthesia. Definitive treatment is more likely to ensure a more positive outcome for children treated under general anesthesia due to less frequent complications from failed restorations or pulpal procedures.