When should a stainless steel crown be used for provisional coverage?

Stainless steel crowns are an excellent choice for provisional coverage primarily when strength is essential. These crowns are recognized for their durability and resistance to wear and fracture, making them particularly suitable for use in areas where the forces of chewing and grinding are significant. They provide protective coverage over a prepared tooth while the permanent restoration is being fabricated or while waiting for the tooth to heal, particularly in cases of extensive preparatory work.

In situations where a tooth is weak, has significant structural loss, or is at risk of further damage, the robust nature of a stainless steel crown ensures that it can withstand normal occlusal forces without compromising the integrity of the underlying tooth structure. This is especially relevant in pediatric dentistry or for teeth that have undergone endodontic treatment.

While aesthetics, comfort, and the depth of the preparation are also important considerations in selecting provisional coverage, they do not outweigh the need for strength when it comes to preserving tooth health and function during the provisional phase. Provisional crowns made from materials prioritized for aesthetics might not offer the same level of durability, while those focusing on comfort may lack the strength necessary for optimal protection. Similarly, the depth of a preparation may influence the choice of materials, but the priority in situations requiring strength clearly favors stainless steel crowns.