A 10-year-old child presents with mesial caries on primary teeth S (upper right second primary molar) and L (upper left second primary molar). What is the most appropriate restoration?

For primary second molars (teeth S and L in the Universal numbering system for primary teeth) with multi-surface caries in a 10-year-old, stainless steel crowns (SSC) are the preferred restoration. SSCs are indicated when: (1) caries involves multiple surfaces of a primary molar, (2) after pulp therapy (pulpotomy/pulpectomy), (3) when the tooth cannot be adequately restored with conventional restorations. SSCs are durable, cost-effective, and have superior longevity compared to amalgam or composite in primary molars. SDF arrests caries but does not restore lost tooth structure. The Hall technique (SSC without caries removal) is also an evidence-based option for primary molars.