Hall Technique — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric DentistryHall TechniqueORE Part 1

A preformed metal crown (PMC/Hall crown) is to be placed on a carious primary molar using the Hall Technique. Which of the following is a key feature of this technique?

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Correct answer: B — No caries removal or local anaesthesia is required

Explanation lettering: B = shown as A · A = shown as B · D = shown as C · C = shown as D

The Hall Technique is defined by its non-invasive approach: no local anaesthesia, no caries removal, and no tooth preparation are required (Option A is correct). The crown is simply pushed onto the carious tooth, sealing caries in place. This contrasts with conventional crown placement, which requires local anaesthesia, caries removal and tooth preparation (eliminating Options B and C). The crown is cemented with glass-ionomer cement, not zinc phosphate (eliminating Option D). While the technique requires absence of pulpal involvement (unaffected dentine between lesion and pulp on clinical and radiographic examination), this is an indication rather than a simple exclusion criterion stated in Option E. The Hall Technique's key advantage is its minimal invasiveness, making it particularly suitable for anxious young children and reducing iatrogenic damage.

Reference: SDCEP: Prevention and Management of Dental Caries in Children – Hall Technique guidance (https://www.childcaries.sdcep.org.uk/guidance/dental-techniques/hall-technique/); Innes NP et al. The Hall Technique; a randomized controlled clinical trial of a novel method of managing carious primary molars in general dental practice. BMC Oral Health. 2007;7:18.