[1] Pediatric dentistry requires procedures with good long-term durability, due to the difficulty of working with young patients.
[1][2] Preformed metal crowns (PMCs) are available untrimmed, trimmed, or pre-contoured, with the latter having minimum chairside time for best fit and requiring the least modification.
[4][5] However, PMCs cannot be used in partially erupted teeth,[1] are unesthetic due to their metallic appearance, and cannot be used in those with a nickel allergy.
[2]To address the unesthetic appearance of PMCs, a layer of composite resin or porcelain can be placed on the esthetic side of the tooth in open-faced and pre-veneered SSCs, respectively.
These crowns are made from various tooth-colored materials, which are more aesthetic, but require better clinical technique to execute.
[1][2] Polycarbonate crowns are made from polyesters of carbonic acid and are molded to shape at high temperature and pressure.
[8][9] Zirconia crowns are indicated for patients exhibiting bruxism, with a nickel-chromium allergy, or those requiring general anaesthesia for dental treatment.
The final decision of crown type considers factors of child cooperation, and parents' aesthetic preferences and financial situation.