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Cheung MC, Peters OA, Parashos P. Global survey of endodontic practice and adoption of newer technologies. Int Endod J 2023; 56:1517-1533. [PMID: 37800848 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate current endodontic practices, adoption of technologies and continuing education attendance within specialist endodontic practice globally and to identify geographic trends. METHODOLOGY A web-based survey of endodontic association members in Australia, Britain, Canada, Italy, New Zealand and the USA on routine treatment preferences, armamentarium and education attendance was conducted. Chi-squared, independent sample t-tests, Cochran's Q test and McNemar's test were performed. RESULTS The survey was completed by 543 endodontists or endodontic post-graduate students. Almost all respondents used the dental operating microscope (DOM, 91.3%), engine-driven nickel-titanium instruments (NiTi, 97.6%), electronic apex locators (EAL, 93.0%), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT, 91.2%) and calcium silicate-based materials (CSBMs, 93.7%). Dental dam was always used by 99.1%. Over half used irrigation adjuncts (81.8%), warm vertical compaction (74.6%) and heat-treated NiTi (60.2%). Geographic comparison between AP (Asia-Pacific, n = 78), AM (Americas, n = 402) and EM (Europe and Middle East, n = 63) was performed. AM and EM preferred single-visit treatment more (p < .001) and used higher sodium hypochlorite concentrations than AP. AM had more access to CBCT in the workplace (86.6%) than AP (65.4%, p < .001) and used CBCT for routine preoperative assessment (39.6%) more than EM (7.3%, p < .001). Almost all of EM used irrigation adjuncts (95.2%), more than AM (78.1%, p = .001). AP used steroid/antibiotic medicaments most (p < .001) and had the highest attendance at continuing education programmes. CONCLUSION Several endodontic-specific armamentaria have reached almost complete adoption within global specialist endodontic practice, whilst the continued uptake of newer technologies should be followed over time. Some practising philosophies varied significantly across different geographic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ove Andreas Peters
- School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter Parashos
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Cheung MC, Parashos P. Current endodontic practice and use of newer technologies in Australia and New Zealand. Aust Dent J 2023; 68:186-196. [PMID: 37382301 DOI: 10.1111/adj.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated endodontic clinical preferences, adoption of newer technologies and information sources among dentists and endodontists. METHODS Dental and endodontic society members in Australia and New Zealand were surveyed online regarding their endodontic treatment preferences, armamentarium, information sources and continuing professional education (CPE) attendance. RESULTS Complete responses were received from 71 endodontic specialists or postgraduates (Group E) and 139 general dentists (Group D). Most of Group E used dental operating microscopes (95.8%), endodontic cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT; 98.6%) and calcium silicate-based materials (CSBMs; 97.2%), significantly more (P < 0.001) than Group D (86.3% used loupes, <32% used CBCT for endodontics or CSBMs). Most respondents used dental dam always for endodontics (94.3%), electronic apex locators (EAL; 81.0%) and engine-driven nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments (91.4%); Group E had more experience with engine-driven NiTi (P < 0.001). Endodontic CPE attendance was highest at dental association programs (P < 0.001) while hands-on NiTi training attendance was highest via commercial companies (P < 0.05). Online information sources were commonly used (38.8% of Group D, 59.2% of Group E). CONCLUSION Dental dam, EAL and engine-driven NiTi were almost universally used. The endodontic group reported high adoption of newer endodontic technologies. Endodontic CPE and information sources should be further surveyed as online engagement evolves. © 2023 Australian Dental Association.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Cheung
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - P Parashos
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Jiang H, Shen L, Zhang Y, Yang J. Attitudes towards and use of dental dams by final-year dental students in Chongqing, China: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059148. [PMID: 35831056 PMCID: PMC9280896 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the current and intended future use of dental dams (DDs) and attitudes regarding DD use among final-year dental students at two levels (undergraduate and college) in dental schools in Chongqing, China. DESIGN A cross-sectional study based on a questionnaire was conducted from June to July 2021. SETTING Chongqing Medical University (CQMU, undergraduate level) and Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College (CQTGMC, junior college level). PARTICIPANTS A total of 245 final-year dental students. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES An anonymous online questionnaire was distributed to dental students less than 1 month before graduation. Students were asked about the DD training they had received, their attitudes towards some aspects of DDs, their current DD use and their intended future DD use in adult or child patients and in various dental procedures. RESULTS A total of 238 valid questionnaires were returned (response rate=97.1%, CQMU=96.2%, n=76; CQTGMC=97.6%, n=162). A total of 47.5% of respondents used DDs on real patients during their internships (CQMU=59.2%, CQTGMC=42.0%, p<0.05). Whether in restorative procedures or endodontic treatment, the most common reason for not using DDs was a 'lack of knowledge and experience', followed by 'DDs could not be provided by internship institutions'. Although the advantages of DDs were recognised by most students from the two schools, 52.9% thought DDs were difficult to apply (CQMU=42.1%, CQTGMC=58.0%, p<0.05). A total of 92.1% of CQMU respondents and 95.1% of CQTGMC respondents expressed their willingness to use DDs after independent practice in the future. CONCLUSIONS Although final-year students have a clear awareness of the advantages of DDs and are very enthusiastic about future DD use, the current DD utilisation rate is low. Education about DDs should be continuously improved in many aspects, and the advantages of using DDs in clinical dentistry should be further emphasised at dental schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haofeng Jiang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, Municipality, China
| | - Lu Shen
- College of Stomatology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, Municipality, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, Municipality, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, Municipality, China
| | - Jing Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, Municipality, China
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Leinonen S, Vehkalahti MM. Compliance with Key Practices of Root Canal Treatment Varies by the Reward System Applied in Public Dental Services. J Endod 2021; 47:1592-1597. [PMID: 34343591 DOI: 10.1016/j.joen.2021.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess clinical practices in root canal treatments (RCTs) performed by general dental practitioners under 2 different reward schemes applied in public dental services. METHODS This study used a retrospective design with tooth as the observation unit. The data included all teeth (n = 547) with nonsurgical primary RCT completed in 2016. Electronic documents included treatment details and radiographs. RCT assessment covered 4 key items: taking pre- and postoperative radiographs, using a rubber dam, measuring working length. Assessed dichotomies indicated whether practices were adequate. Dentists' reward schemes were "salaried" and "fee-for-service." Chi squared tests analyzed frequency differences. RESULTS RCTs formed 2 groups by the reward scheme: 305 RCTs were performed by salaried dentists and 242 by fee-for-service dentists. Preoperative radiographs were diagnosable for 76.1% and postoperative radiographs, for 95.1% of all RCTs. Rubber dam use was documented for 28.9% of the RCTs, more frequently when performed by salaried than by fee-for-service dentists (43.9% vs 9.9%, P < .001). Working length measurement was documented for 72.9% of the RCTs, more frequently for RCTs performed by salaried than by fee-for-service dentists (85.2% vs 57.4%, P < .001). All 4 key items were assessed as adequate in 19.0% of all RCTs, more frequently when performed by salaried than by fee-for-service dentists (29.5% vs 5.8%, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Deficiencies in RCTs, particularly underuse of rubber dams call for further research to understand the reasons for noncompliance with good clinical practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sini Leinonen
- Department of Social Services and Healthcare, The City of Porvoo, Porvoo, Finland
| | - Miira M Vehkalahti
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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Eliyas S, Briggs PFA, Gallagher JE. Assessing a training programme for primary care dental practitioners in endodontics of moderate complexity: Pilot data on skills enhancement and treatment outcomes. Br Dent J 2018; 225:617-628. [PMID: 30310203 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2018.807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Aims To explore the impact of dedicated training to extend the skills of primary care practitioners on the quality of endodontic care, using clinical, radiographic and patient-related outcomes. Methods The quality of endodontic treatment performed at the beginning and end of training to become dentists with extended skills (DES) in endodontics was assessed in vitro and in vivo from endo-training blocks and self-reported logbooks containing clinical notes and radiographs respectively. The quality of endodontic care delivered by DES post-training was measured using clinical and radiographic outcomes. Patient-related outcomes were assessed using a self-report questionnaire, including the Oral Health Impact Profile – Endodontic Outcome Measure (OHIP-EOM). Results Data on eight dentists were examined pre-and post-training, five of whom participated in further follow-up investigations on the quality of endodontic care delivered to their patients. Significant improvements in skills were seen for all domains in vitro (p <0.05), and for all domains of the clinical treatment process, and achieving the correct working length of the root filling as seen by radiography in vivo (p <0.05). The quality of the clinical process was maintained following training. Positive patient outcome (OHIP-EOM) scores were recorded (mean score of 34.72, SD = 10.74, n = 120 pre-treatment and 25.85, SD = 7.74, n = 47 representing reduced impact at follow-up). The majority of patients reported being satisfied, or very satisfied, with the service they received (72.5%, n = 98); would use the service again (68.1%, n = 92); and would recommend the service to friends and family (74.8%, n = 101). Conclusions Findings suggest that training for dentists working in practice can be successful in enhancing skills and changing practice, with evidence of high patient satisfaction and good clinical and patient-related outcomes. Pilot results must be interpreted with caution and further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Eliyas
- St George's University Hospital's NHS Foundation Trust and Hodsoll House Specialist Practice, Kent
| | - P F A Briggs
- Barts Health NHS Trust, Whitechapel, London, UK.,Health Education England London and South East, Stewart House, Russell Square London, UK
| | - J E Gallagher
- King's College London Dental Institute, Population and Patient Health Division, London, UK
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Markvart M, Fransson H, Bjørndal L. Ten-year follow-up on adoption of endodontic technology and clinical guidelines amongst Danish general dental practitioners. Acta Odontol Scand 2018. [PMID: 29523034 DOI: 10.1080/00016357.2018.1447684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to re-assess the adoption of certain endodontic technology and central treatment principles of root canal treatments as advocated by guidelines presented by the European Society of Endodontology. MATERIAL AND METHODS The questionnaire included the same questions in 2003 and 2013. The general dental practitioners (GDPs) anonymously reported how frequent ('often', 'occasionally', and 'never') they used certain endodontic technology and adhered to central treatment principles. The statistical analyses were performed using Chi-squared test and Goodman-Kruskal's γ-coefficient as an association measure. RESULTS The overall response rate of the 2013 group was 46.5% (n = 531). The frequencies of GDPs reporting often use of rubber dam, apex locator and rotary NiTi instruments were significantly higher (p < .0001) than in 2003, as well as reporting the use of composite resin for coronal sealing (p < .019). Adoption was significantly influenced by the factors gender (p = .601) and time since graduation (p = .361), and the cluster analyses revealed the neglected use of rubber dam to be associated with no established postoperative recall system. CONCLUSIONS After 10 years, there was a higher frequency of GDPs who had adopted certain endodontic technologies. However, progress towards high-quality root canal treatment might be obstructed as the majority of GDPs avoids consistent use of rubber dam, and routinely neglects recalls for postoperative controls of their endodontic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merete Markvart
- Section of Cariology and Endodontics, Department of Odontology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helena Fransson
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Lars Bjørndal
- Section of Cariology and Endodontics, Department of Odontology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Sánchez-Sanhueza G, Bello-Toledo H, González-Rocha G, Gonçalves AT, Valenzuela V, Gallardo-Escárate C. Metagenomic study of bacterial microbiota in persistent endodontic infections using Next-generation sequencing. Int Endod J 2018; 51:1336-1348. [PMID: 29786880 DOI: 10.1111/iej.12953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine the bacterial microbiota in root canals associated with persistent apical periodontitis and their relationship with the clinical characteristics of patients using next-generation sequencing (NGS). METHODOLOGY Bacterial samples from root canals associated with teeth having persistent apical periodontitis were taken from 24 patients undergoing root canal retreatment. Bacterial DNA was extracted, and V3-V4 variable regions of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified. The amplification was deep sequenced by Illumina technology to establish the metagenetic relationships among the bacterial species identified. The composition and diversity of microbial communities in the root canal and their relationships with clinical features were analysed. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used to analyse differences between patient characteristics and microbial data. RESULTS A total of 86 different operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified and Good's nonparametric coverage estimator method indicated that 99.9 ± 0.00001% diversity was recovered per sample. The largest number of bacteria belonged to the phylum Proteobacteria. According to the medical history from the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Classification System, ASA II-III had higher richness estimates and distinct phylogenetic relationships compared to ASA I individuals (P < 0.05). Periapical index (PAI) score 5 was associated with increased microbiota diversity in comparison to PAI score 4, and this index was reduced in symptomatic patients. CONCLUSIONS Based on the findings of this study, it is possible to suggest a close relationship between several clinical features and greater microbiota diversity with persistent endodontic infections. This work provides a better understanding on how microbial communities interact with their host and vice versa.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Sánchez-Sanhueza
- Discipline of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Restorative Dentistry, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - H Bello-Toledo
- Research Laboratory on Antibacterial Agents, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Microbiology, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - G González-Rocha
- Research Laboratory on Antibacterial Agents, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Microbiology, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - A T Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Aquatic Genomics, Department of Oceanography, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - V Valenzuela
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Aquatic Genomics, Department of Oceanography, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - C Gallardo-Escárate
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Aquatic Genomics, Department of Oceanography, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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Frequency and Influencing Factors of Rubber Dam Usage in Tianjin: A Questionnaire Survey. Int J Dent 2016; 2016:7383212. [PMID: 27555870 PMCID: PMC4983387 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7383212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. To investigate the frequency and influencing factors of rubber dam usage for endodontic procedures among general dentistry practitioners and specialized practitioners (endodontist) in Tianjin. Methods. Three hundred questionnaires were distributed among practitioners from 3 different types of medical institutions in Tianjin. Data were collected and analysed using Chi-square tests. Results. There were 63.3% of respondents who have used rubber dam (response rate 82.7%, valid response rate 76.3%). However, only 0.4% and 3.1% of them recognized using rubber dam “every time” during caries direct restoration and root canal therapy, respectively. There was no significant difference in rubber dam usage between male and female practitioners. Among the respondents, practitioners with working experience between 5 and 10 years showed the highest usage rate (76.3%), while practitioners working more than 20 years showed the lowest (53.2%). The endodontists gained the highest and the most frequent usage rate and the best rubber dam technique mastering skills. Practitioners working in those stomatological departments of general hospitals showed the lowest rubber dam usage rate. Conclusions. The prevalence of rubber dam usage in Tianjin city is still low. The practitioner's gender, years of professional experience, general or specialized field, and the type of dental setting they work for are the factors that need to be considered during making policy and executing training.
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Mungia R, Buchberg M, Hayes H, Dolan C, Reyes S, Rankin K, Oates T. Connecting and Collaborating: Developing National Dental PBRN Study Concepts Through POD Engagement. Health Promot Pract 2015; 17:278-84. [PMID: 26715696 DOI: 10.1177/1524839915621546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This article illustrates the process by which the Southwest Region of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (www.NationalDentalPBRN.org) fosters collaboration among practitioners and researchers in study concept development through protocol development groups (PODs). The Southwest Region begins this process by engaging PODs, which comprise dentists, hygienists, and/or academic faculty who share research interests related to improving dental care. METHOD The PODs use the Tuckman four-stage model of group development (forming, storming, norming, and performing) to develop study concepts. This well-structured model encourages engagement among group members and enables quality discussion through organized sessions. This model provides milestones for the group's progression and for the members' interactions. The Southwest Region Directors play a crucial role in guiding and directing the development of PODs by aligning the members' research interests with the goals of the National Network. RESULTS POD engagement using Tuckman's stages has been successful in developing study concepts for submission to the National Network. Between 2012 and 2014, the Southwest Region has developed 14 PODs from 275 research ideas. Five of these study concepts have been submitted to the National Network for approval, including the Novel Tobacco Products POD, which showcases the applicability of Tuckman's model. CONCLUSION Overall, the POD concept is a collaborative effort that brings together practitioners and academicians through shared research interests and capitalizes on participants' expertise and experiences. The Southwest Region will continue to develop PODs to foster new ideas for future studies in the Network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahma Mungia
- University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Holly Hayes
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Colleen Dolan
- University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie Reyes
- University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kathleen Rankin
- Texas A&M University, Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Thomas Oates
- University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Gilbert GH, Riley JL, Eleazer PD, Benjamin PL, Funkhouser E. Discordance between presumed standard of care and actual clinical practice: the example of rubber dam use during root canal treatment in the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. BMJ Open 2015; 5:e009779. [PMID: 26656026 PMCID: PMC4679916 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Use of a rubber dam during root canal treatment is considered the standard of care because it enhances patient safety and optimises the odds of successful treatment. Nonetheless, not all dentists use a rubber dam, creating disconnect between presumed standard of care and what is actually done in clinical practice. Little is known about dentists' attitudes towards use of the rubber dam in their practices. The objectives were to: (1) quantify these attitudes and (2) test the hypothesis that specific attitudes are significantly associated with rubber dam use. SETTING National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (NationalDentalPBRN.org). PARTICIPANTS 1490 network dentists. OUTCOME MEASURES Dentists completed a questionnaire about their attitudes towards rubber dam use during root canal treatment. Three attitude scales comprised 33 items that used a 5-point ordinal scale to measure beliefs about effectiveness, inconvenience, ease of placement, comparison to other isolation techniques and patient factors. Factor analysis, cluster analysis and multivariable logistic regression analysed the relationship between attitudes and rubber dam use. RESULTS All items had responses at each point on the 5-point scale, with an overall pattern of substantial variation across dentists. Five attitudinal factors (rubber dam effectiveness; inconvenient/time-consuming; ease of placement; effectiveness compared to Isolite; patient factors) and 4 clusters of practitioners were identified. Each factor and cluster was independently and strongly associated with rubber dam use. CONCLUSIONS General dentists have substantial variation in attitudes about rubber dam use. Beliefs that rubber dam use is not effective, inconvenient, time-consuming, not easy to place or affected by patient factors, were independently and significantly associated with lower rubber dam use. These attitudes explain why there is substantial discordance between presumed standard of care and actual practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregg H Gilbert
- Department of Clinical and Community Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Joseph L Riley
- Department of Community Dentistry and Behavioral Science, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Paul D Eleazer
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Ellen Funkhouser
- Division of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Eleazer PD, Gilbert GH, Funkhouser E, Reams GJ, Law AS, Benjamin PL. Techniques and materials used by general dentists during endodontic treatment procedures: Findings from The National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. J Am Dent Assoc 2015; 147:19-27. [PMID: 26562726 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2015.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about which materials and techniques general dentists (GDs) use during endodontic procedures. The objectives were to quantify GDs' use of specific endodontic tools, quantify inappropriate use, and ascertain whether inappropriate use is associated with GDs' practice characteristics. METHODS GDs in The National Dental Practice-Based Research Network reported in a questionnaire materials and techniques they use during endodontic procedures. RESULTS Among eligible GDs, 1,490 (87%) participated. Most (93%; n = 1,383) used sodium hypochlorite to irrigate. The most commonly used sealers were zinc oxide eugenol (43%) and resin (40%), followed by calcium hydroxide (26%). Most (62%; n = 920) used a compaction obturation technique; 36% (n = 534) used a carrier-based method. Most (96%; n = 1,423) used gutta-percha as a filler; 5% used paste fillers. Few used irrigants (n = 46), techniques (n = 49), or fillers (n = 10) that investigators classified as inappropriate. CONCLUSIONS GDs use a broad range of endodontic techniques and materials, often adapting to newer technologies as they become available. Few GDs use tools that the investigators classified as inappropriate. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS GDs use many types of endodontic techniques and materials, but only a small percentage of them are inappropriate.
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