Dentists’ Perception and Clinical use of Preformed Metal Crowns to Restore Primary Molar Defects in Chengdu City, China: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Preformed metal crowns (PMCs) are recommended for the enduring restoration of primary molar defects. However, the PMC technique is not implemented in China as well as that in Western countries. Aim: This study aimed to assess the clinical use of the PMC technique and its effective factors among dentists in Chengdu, China.Methods: The questionnaires were distributed among 1000 dentists practicing in Chengdu via an online questionnaire platform. Data, including sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents and their perception and use of PMCs, were collected. Results: The response rate was 45%. Most respondents (69.6%) did not use PMCs. Academic qualification, working specialty and working experiences were associated with dentists’ use of PMCs. The lack of knowledge about PMCs technique was the main obstacle for the dental practitioners using PMCs (41.7%). The lack of understanding of the rationale of PMCs was the main reason for parents accepting PMC restorations(43.6%). Attending continuing education programs was the main approach to learn the PMC restorative technique(59.1%).Conclusion: The clinical use of PMCs was not very popular in Chengdu city. To promote the use of this restorative technique, the knowledge and practical training should be incorporated into routine courses of undergraduate dental education.