LAUSR

BACKGROUND Preformed metal crowns (PMCs) have been the restoration of choice for paediatric dentistry. However, PMCs have a non-aesthetic appearance, which has become a point of concern. Recently, prefabricated zirconia crowns (PZCs) have been increasingly used as an aesthetic restorative material for primary teeth, as they have pleasing properties. AIM This systematic review summarises the clinical results for PZCs in primary dentitions, including their wear on the opposing dentition, retention, fracture resistance, parental satisfaction, gingival health, and cementation materials. MATERIALS & METHODS Electronic database searches were conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Clinical trials, observational studies, and case reports/series were included. The quality of the studies was analysed using the Cochrane tool and the domain-based evaluation for Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions. RESULTS The search retrieved 166 references, of which 14 studies were included for qualitative analyses. The risk of bias varied from low to unclear. The included studies indicated that PZCs appear to be a good alternative to PMCs. CONCLUSION PZCs are retentive, and are not associated with accelerated wear on the opposing dentition. They also exhibit a high fracture resistance, and are satisfying to parents and compatible with gingival health. However, there is inconclusive evidence with regard to cementation materials.