Survey on the teaching and use in dental schools of resin-based materials for restoring posterior teeth

Abstract

A survey was conducted of 100 dental schools worldwide to investigate the current teaching of posterior resin composite restorations. A 20 multi-part question questionnaire was emailed to the selected schools. Schools were selected by ability to understand and respond in English. The questionnaire consisted of four open-ended questions and 16 closed questions on topics such as material selection for restoring posterior teeth, preclinical teaching of resin composite for posterior teeth, restoration size, contraindications, matrix placement methods, lining use, adhesive selection and finishing. Forty-six schools responded. The outcomes showed all schools included the teaching of resin composite for posterior restorations but varied. The majority of schools (63%) no longer taught amalgam as the preferred posterior restorative material. Half of the schools surveyed set numerical clinical requirements for restoration placement. Australian schools had no requirements whilst 92% of Asian schools did. There was a consensus that larger restorations were less suitable for resin composite. Selection of adhesives depended on region. Generally, the schools surveyed showed minor variations philosophically in teaching of the use and placement of resin composite restorations.

Co-Blend Application Mode of Bulk Fill Composite Resin

“…Resin-based composite restorative materials are a cornerstone in modern-day dental practice because of their excellent esthetics and chemo-mechanical properties [1,2,3]. Dentine hybridization through polymeric agents represents a considerable innovation in dentistry, which has become clinically feasible [4].…”

Dentists' restorative decision-making and implications for an ‘amalgamless’ profession. Part 2: a qualitative study

“…(22/1-23) It is established that the teaching of alternatives to amalgam restorations, especially treatment of posterior teeth with use of resin composite, has increased worldwide 12,28,30,[37][38][39] and that institutional approaches to the teaching of tooth-coloured materials varies significantly. 30,40,41 Ben-Gal and Weiss 37 suggested 'convenience and long experience' are primary factors in the decision-making process and clinical teachers' use of resin composite was influenced mainly by the 'prevailing trend' and not evidence-based -a conclusion being these teachers were not aware of current appropriate alternatives to amalgam.…”

Dental educators’ attitudes towards the teaching of dental amalgam

“…Comparisons to dental amalgam contained in these studies have been minimal but consistent in their findings that the inclusion of dental amalgam as part of curricula has steadily decreased . It is established that dental schools’ teaching of dental amalgam varies, with some planning its removal from, and others not containing it in, the curriculum.…”