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Hall Technique for Crown Placement in Primary Molars

Originally published: 2019

Republished: 2022 (Global Agreement Validation)

Developed by: IAPD Science Committee

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Version Information

Originally published in 2019.
Republished in 2022 following global agreement validation.

The 2022 version reflects methodological standardisation within the IAPD Consensus & Foundational Articles framework and formal evaluation of international agreement. No substantive changes were made to the clinical recommendations.

Executive Summary

The Hall Technique is a minimally invasive method for managing carious primary molars through the placement of preformed metal crowns without caries removal, tooth preparation, or local anaesthesia. The technique works by sealing the carious lesion from the oral environment, thereby arresting the progression of the disease.

This approach is based on contemporary understanding of dental caries as a biofilm-mediated disease and aligns with the principles of minimally invasive dentistry.

Core principles include:

  • Sealing carious lesions beneath a preformed metal crown

  • Avoiding local anaesthesia, caries removal, and tooth preparation

  • Preserving tooth structure while arresting disease progression

  • Improving patient acceptance by reducing invasive procedures

  • Integrating the technique into comprehensive caries management strategies

The Hall Technique can provide an effective, child-friendly treatment option for managing carious primary molars in appropriate clinical situations.

IAPD Recommendations

Evidence-Based Recommendations

The Hall Technique is an effective method for managing carious primary molars by sealing the lesion and preventing further progression of the disease.

The technique may be particularly beneficial in children who have difficulty cooperating with conventional restorative procedures.

Clinical assessment should confirm that the tooth is suitable for treatment, including absence of signs or symptoms indicating pulpal or periapical pathology.

(Evidence-based recommendations are not subject to global agreement scoring.)

Consensus-Based Recommendations

(Evaluated for Global Agreement in 2022)

The Hall Technique should be considered as part of a comprehensive caries management strategy for primary molars.

Appropriate case selection and clinical judgement are essential when determining whether the Hall Technique is suitable for a particular patient.

Parents or caregivers should be informed about the procedure, expected outcomes, and the appearance of the preformed metal crown.

Regular follow-up examinations should be conducted to monitor treatment outcomes.

Related Educational Resources

To support clinical implementation and knowledge translation, IAPD has developed complementary educational materials.

🎙 IAPD Podcast Series

Relevant episodes of the IAPD Podcast Series may explore minimally invasive restorative approaches and clinical management strategies for carious primary molars.

▶ Listen to the Podcast

🎥 IAPD Webinar

Relevant webinars may address minimally invasive restorative techniques and treatment planning for paediatric patients.

▶ Watch the Webinar Recording

Suggested Citation

International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD).
IAPD Foundational Articles and Recommendations on the Hall Technique for Crown Placement in Primary Molars.
Originally published 2019. Global Agreement Validation 2022.

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