Use of amalgam and stainless steel restorations for primary molars

The findings of this study agree with those of Braft, namely, stainless steel crowns for primary molars are superior to multisurface amalgams. This is viewed in terms of the number of teeth requiring retreatment. Because of the eventual loss of primary molars, the actual longevity of restorations may be difficult to establish. Based on the information found in this study it is concluded that: In primary first molars, 75 percent of one-surface and 70 percent of two-surface amalgams will need replacement before the age of eight. In primary second molars, 32 percent of one-surface and 71.4 percent of two-surface amalgams will need replacement before the age of eight. Stainless steel crowns will need further treatment in 12.8 percent of primary first molars and in 11 percent of second molars. Before the first permanent molars erupt into occlusion (before the age of eight) stainless steel crowns are the treatment of choice, for the primary molars, particularly for multisurface lesions in the primary first molar.