No abstract

Given the importance of the renal involvement, the authors suggest that paediatric dentists consider referring all children with this dental phenotype for renal ultrasound examination.

Objective To determine the opinions and current methods used in placing posterior composite restorations by general dental practitioners. Setting The study was completed by general dental practitioners randomly selected from across the UK. Method A questionnaire was devised to gain this information. It was sent to 500 UK dentists chosen at random from the general dental register, with an explanatory letter and reply-paid envelope. Results Two hundred and sixty-seven replies were received. Sixtyone percent of dentists felt amalgam use had decreased over the last fi ve years, 75% felt posterior composite use had increased. Regarding choice of posterior material, almost all cited clinical indication as the most infl uential factor while patient's aesthetic demands (89%), wish for a certain material (78%) and the dentist's confi dence using a certain restorative material (76%) were contributing factors. Regarding the techniques used, contemporary techniques were employed although there was confusion regarding the need for rubber dam and the most appropriate method of lining the cavity. A case scenario of a pregnant patient who required treatment found that 66% of respondents would place a restoration other than a temporary dressing, with 16% placing an amalgam restoration. Conclusions The majority of dentists surveyed place load bearing posterior composite restorations regularly. Their choice of restorative material is infl uenced by clinical indications and the patient's aesthetic demands. The techniques used were appropriate, although there was confusion around the need for rubber dam and the most appropriate method to line the cavity. There was also confusion in relation to the most appropriate materials for use in pregnancy.

All areas of the practice of dentistry are evolving at a considerable pace. One area in particular which has seen a rapid revolution is the oral rehabilitation of partially dentate adults. The aim of this study was to describe the contemporary teaching of fixed partial dentures (FPDs) in dental schools in Ireland and the United Kingdom. An online questionnaire which sought information in relation to the current teaching of FPDs was developed and distributed to 15 Irish and UK dental schools with undergraduate teaching programmes in Spring 2009. Responses were received from 12 schools (response rate=80%). All schools offer teaching programmes in relation to FPDs. The number of hours devoted to pre-clinical/phantom head teaching of FPDs ranged from 3 to 42h (mean: 16h). The staff/student ratio for pre-clinical teaching courses in FPDs ranged from 1:6 to 1:18 (mode: 1:12). Cantilever resin-retained FPDs were the most popular type of FPD provided clinically (average=0·83 per school; range=1-2). Five schools (42%) report that they have requirements (e.g. targets, quotas, competencies) which students must complete prior to graduation in relation to FPDs. Fixed partial dentures form an important part of the undergraduate teaching programme in UK and Irish dental schools. While this teaching is subjected to contemporary pressures such as lack of curriculum time and a lack of available clinical facilities and teachers, there is evidence that teaching programmes in this area are evolving and are sensitive to current clinical practice trends and evidence-based practice.

A significant number of patients attend for dental treatment that require impressions, and for those with gagging problems it can be a horrendous experience. Being able to make the procedure less of an ordeal is better for all involved.