172 - Utilization of Hall Stainless Steel Crowns in Dental School Setting

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate utilization patterns of Hall stainless steel crowns (SSCs) compared with conventional SSCs over a 12-year period.

Methods: Following institutional approval, a retrospective chart review was conducted using axiUm, the electronic health record of a U.S. dental school. A unique procedure code implemented in 2011 allowed tracking of Hall crown placement. Records from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2024, were reviewed for pediatric patients receiving either a Hall or conventional SSC. Data collected included crown type, provider type, patient age, and tooth number. Descriptive statistics characterized utilization trends.

Results: A total of 25,837 stainless steel crowns were placed during the study period, including 3,526 Hall crowns (13.6%). Hall crown utilization increased significantly over the study period, with the odds of Hall crown placement increasing by approximately 20% per year (p < 0.001). Pediatric dental residents placed the greatest number of Hall crowns, with increasing adoption by predoctoral students in later years. Hall crowns were placed in children aged 1–12 years, most frequently in five-year-olds, and most commonly on mandibular first primary molars.

Conclusions: Use of the Hall Technique increased substantially in a U.S. dental school setting, supporting its integration into pediatric dental education and minimally invasive care models.