Periodontal health at first permanent molars adjacent to primary molar stainless steel crowns.

The present investigation was designed to study the effect of stainless steel crowns (SSC), placed on second primary molars, on the periodontal tissues of neighbouring first permanent molars. 36 children (9-12 years old) with an SSC on a second primary molar on one side of the mouth only, were selected for the study. A clinical and radiographic examination was performed at the mesial surface of the first permanent molar, adjacent to the SSC, and at the corresponding area on the contralateral side of the mouth. The clinical examination included gingival and plaque index scores and probing depth measurements. In the radiographic examination, the marginal bone level was assessed. No statistically significant differences in plaque index scores, gingival index scores and probing pocket depth were noted between the mesial surface of first permanent molars and the contralateral control area. Nor were any significant differences in bone level seen. The present findings suggest that the presence of a well-adapted SSC on a second permanent molar does not affect the periodontal health of the neighbouring first permanent molar.