Could a crown without drilling beat the drill for Kids' cavities?

NCT ID NCT04367649

First seen Aug 13, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests two gentler ways to treat cavities in children's baby molars: the Hall technique, which fits a stainless steel crown without removing decay, and atraumatic restorative treatment (ART), which uses hand tools and adhesive fillings. It compares these to the conventional drilling-and-filling approach in 155 children. The goal is to see which method keeps the teeth healthy and intact over time, while also checking how satisfied the children are with the experience.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Hall technique (stainless steel crown) and atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) compared to conventional fillings
What this could lead to
If successful, these less invasive methods could offer children a more comfortable, drill-free way to treat cavities, potentially reducing anxiety and the need for repeat procedures.
What could go wrong
The trial is relatively small and early-stage, and results may not apply to all children or cavity types. There is also a risk that the crowns or fillings may fail or cause discomfort.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for PRIMARY DENTAL CARIES are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University

    Alexandria, 21512, Egypt

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.