KNOWLEDGE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE OF DENTAL STUDENTS IN SAUDI ARABIA REGARDING REPLACEMENT OF RESTORATIONS.

Abstract

Background: It is clear that dentists are now using composite restorations more often in clinical dentistry for the treatment of carious teeth. The majority of dental procedures are performed to change out composite restorations. Recurrent cavities, minor defects, discoloration, wear, and loss of anatomic integrity are some of the most common causes of restorative failure. Repetitive iatrogenic pulp insults that may cause pulp vitality loss and degradation of the remaining tooth structure inevitably come from restoration replacement and the removal of sound tooth structure from areas that aren't impacted by any localized defect. Due to the increasing prevalence of composite restorations that aren't functioning well, it's critical to assess Saudi dental students' attitudes and understanding regarding how to handle these situations.

Objectives: This cross-sectional study aim to evaluate the knowledge and clinical practices of restoration repair and replacement in undergraduate courses in Saudi Arabia Universities.

Methodology: Data was collected using a survey questionnaire that using Google forms through social media platforms among undergraduate dental students from different universities in Saudi Arabia. The sample size is estimated by using the Qualtrics calculator with a confidence level of 95%; the minimum sample size is 384. The collection of data was entered on the computer using the Microsoft Excel (2016) program for Windows. The data is later transferred to the Statistical-Package of Social-Science Software (SPSS) program, version 20. For statistical analysis.

Results: The majority of students fall in the age group of 20-30 years, accounting for 93.1% of the total students. The second parameter is gender, with 52.3% of the students being female and 47.7% being male. The highest number of students (30.6%) is from King Khalid University, followed by Jouf University (8.4%) and Ibn Sina College for Medical Studies (7.1%). The types of restorations that students have performed repairs on also vary, with composite restorations being the most common (72.0%). This is followed by amalgam (40.4%). When asked about the valid reasons for restoration repair, the responses indicate that students recognize the importance of preservation of tooth substance (55.2%), protection of the pulp (49.5%), and extending the longevity of restorations (51.2%). The types of restoration defects that are considered suitable for repair include marginal gap (51.0%), partial loss of restoration/fracture (50.5%), and secondary caries (42.9%).

Conclusion: In conclusion, the knowledge and clinical practice of dental students in Saudi Arabia regarding the replacement of restorations are influenced by various factors, including the quality of education and training, availability of resources, and cultural and social factors.