Comparison of clinical outcomes of polyetheretherketone and hybrid resin crowns placed on molars for over two years

This study aimed to compare the 2-year clinical outcomes of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and hybrid resin crowns placed on molars. Patients who received PEEK (P-Cr) and hybrid resin (H-Cr) crowns at Hiroshima University Hospital between 2016 and 2021 were evaluated in 2024 for crown conditions, including loss, fractures, and occlusal wear. No cases of crown debonding or fracture were observed in the P-Cr group. In contrast, the H-Cr group had 10 cases of loss and 4 cases of fractures. The P-Cr group demonstrated significantly fewer cases of crown debonding than the H-Cr group. Occlusal wear was observed in most crowns in the P-Cr group. Compared to the hybrid resin crowns, the PEEK crowns had a lower risk of fracture and debonding and retained long-term functionality; however, surface roughness and color changes were observed, suggesting that they may not be ideal for patients with particularly high esthetic demands. Nevertheless, physiological occlusal relationships and functionality were preserved, indicating that PEEK crowns could be a viable option for restoring molar defects.