Choice Preferences of Direct Composite Restorations in Paediatric Patients: A Multinational Survey From 13 Countries.

Background: Dentists often choose composites for permanent restorations, but using them in children is challenging due to moisture control issues and time-consuming procedures, especially with uncooperative young patients.

Aim: Our survey aimed to evaluate dentists' preferences in selecting resin-based composite restorations for paediatric patients, considering both clinical and aesthetic factors.

Design: The validated online questionnaire was developed in English in May 2023. A 10-item survey was designed for both general dentists and specialists. The questions addressed demographic characteristics (e.g., gender, specialisation) and the use of composite materials in paediatric patients, depending on the patient's age and the type of tooth being treated.

Results: A total of 1830 dentists from 13 countries participated in the survey. Respondents rarely used composite materials in primary teeth (59.7%). In anterior permanent teeth, composite materials were applied in 81.0% of patients aged 8 years and 90.9% of patients aged between 8 and 12 years. In posterior permanent teeth, they were used in 81.7% and 89.5% of patients in these age groups, respectively. Composite restorations were reported most frequently in permanent teeth of patients over 12 years of age (94.9%).

Conclusions: The use of resin composite in paediatric patients increases progressively with age, particularly in permanent teeth and older children.

Significance statement: The proper selection of direct composite restorations in children and adolescents, minimising potential complications after restorative procedures, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the dentine-pulp complex in young teeth.