Changes in the periodontal condition after replacement of swaged crowns by metal.

Evidence based clinical studies have shown exact recommended design for artificial crown reconstruction with acceptable long-term results taking into an account the biological price. Previous histological and clinical studies proved that fixed prostheses might influence the periodontal condition of crowned teeth, if not all biological criteria have been considered. The aim of the present study was to assess the periodontal condition of the crowned teeth after stainless steel swaged crowns were replaced by cast metal ceramic crowns. Participants were selected at the Institute of Stomatology, Stradin's University. Selection criteria included need to replace existing swaged crowns by metal ceramic crowns for patients with absence of any systemic disease. Following symptoms of periodontal condition were examined - presence of inflammation (clinical signs, probing) and pocket depth. Assessments were carried out at four different points of time (first appointment after replacement existing swaged crowns by temporary crowns; two weeks after cementation of permanent metal ceramic restoration; after three month; after six month). Overall bleeding score "2" and "3" at the first measurement was observed in majority of study population. Bleeding scores between the 1st and the 4th measurement was significantly lower (p<0.01). The same trend was observed also in the reduction of pocket depth. Overall mean value of pocket depth gradually decreased from the 1st till the 4th measurement. Replacement of swaged crowns by metal ceramic improves gingival health and leads to better long-term prognosis for restored teeth. It is recommended that swaged crowns be replaced with more biologically friendly crowns.