Research abstract
British Dental Journal 194, 613 - 618 (2003)
Published online: 14 June 2003 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4810258
Amalgam and composite use in UK general dental practice in 2001
F J T Burke1, S McHugh2, A C Hall3, R C Randall4, E Widstrom5 & H Forss6
- The use of resin composite materials had increased in the five years preceding the survey in 62% of practices.
- Regarding choice of materials, clinical indications was an important factor, but patients' aesthetic demands were also highly relevant.
- Half of the respondents place large composite restorations in posterior teeth.
Abstract
Objective This study determined the reasons for dentists' choice of materials, in particular amalgam and resin composite, in Great Britain.
Method A questionnaire was developed to elicit this information. The names and addresses of 1,000 UK-based dentists were selected at random. The questionnaire was mailed to these dentists with an explanatory letter and reply-paid envelope.
Results Six hundred and fifty four replies were received. Regarding choice of material, 100% of respondents cited clinical indication as the most influential factor, although patients' aesthetic demands (99%), patients' choice (95%) and patients' financial situation (92%) were also reported to influence respondents' choice. Thirty-five per cent of respondents used composite 'sometimes', 15% 'often', and 1% 'always' in extensive load-bearing cavities in molar teeth. For composite restorations in posterior teeth, 92% 'always', 'often' or 'sometimes' used the total etch technique and 53% never used rubber dam. Seventy per cent of respondents agreed with the statement 'discontinuation of amalgam restricts a dentist's ability to adequately treat patients'. Eighty-one per cent considered that the growth in the use of composites increased the total cost of oral healthcare.
Conclusions Forty nine per cent of the respondents from England and Wales seldom or never place large composite restorations in molar teeth. Their choice of material is influenced greatly by clinical indications, and patients' aesthetic demands.
- Professor of Primary Dental Care, University of Birmingham School of Dentistry, 3M ESPE, St.Paul, MN 551-1000, US
- Research Statistician, Department of Statistics, University of Glasgow, 3M ESPE, St.Paul, MN 551-1000, US
- Lecturer in Health Sciences, University of Birmingham School of Dentistry, 3M ESPE, St.Paul, MN 551-1000, US
- Manager, Global Clinical Affairs, 3M ESPE, St.Paul, MN 551-1000, US
- Chief Dental Officer, National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health, Helsinki, Kuopio, Finland.
- Chief Dentist, Oral and Maxillofacial Department, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.
Correspondence to: F J T Burke1
University of Birmingham School of Dentistry, St. Chad's Queensway, Birmingham B4 6NN
e-mail: f.j.t.burke@bham.ac.uk