Contemporary teaching of direct posterior composite restorations in Saudi dental schools

Abstract

The teaching of posterior composites has undergone considerable assessment and refinement in well-developed countries in recent years. However, little information exists on this teaching in Arab countries. Aim of this study: The aim of this study was to investigate the teaching of direct posterior composite restorations to undergraduate dental students in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Method: An online survey was developed and distributed to 17 Saudi dental schools. The topic of the survey sought information related to current teaching of direct posterior composite restorations in undergraduate teaching programs. Results: Responses were received from 13 schools (response rate = approximately 76%). All respondent dental schools taught the same types of restorations, however there were some variations regarding contraindications of such restorations. In certain dental schools, outdated knowledge was taught related to cavity specifications such as beveling of occlusal margins, the use of clear plastic matrix band and light reflecting wedges. There was shortening of knowledge related to light curing technologies as well as different adhesive systems. Nano-filled dental composite was not taught in approximately half of the respondent schools. Also, the rush into teaching of bulk-fill placement technique was noted. Conclusions: Among Saudi dental schools, there may be some degree of variation in the teaching of posterior composite restorations. Although, some teaching shortcomings were noted, the overall extent and content taught to dental students in KSA may provide enough knowledge that may be essential for preclinical and clinical practice of the direct posterior composite restorations.