Teaching the placement of posterior resin-based composite restorations in U.S. dental schools.
BACKGROUND
In light of the increased use of and demand for posterior resin-based composite restorations in dental practice, the authors investigated U.S. dental schools' current teaching with regard to placement of posterior composite restorations.


METHODS
In early 2005, the authors invited 52 schools to participate in an e-mailed survey.


RESULTS
The authors received 47 completed responses, for a 90 percent response rate. Although all schools provided didactic and clinical teaching in the placement of occlusal resin-based composites in posterior teeth, the survey results showed variation in teaching the use of two- and three-surface occlusoproximal composites.


CONCLUSIONS
The survey findings demonstrate a marked change in instruction in placement of posterior resin-based composite restorations in U.S. dental schools during the last five to 10 years. However, the authors found much variation in the nature and extent of the instruction and techniques taught.


CONCLUSIONS
Dental schools need to ensure that their graduating students are well-prepared for independent clinical practice.
Lynch
Christopher D
CD
University Dental School and Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland. c.lynch@ucc.ie
McConnell
Robert J
RJ
Wilson
Nairn H F
NH
D001641:Bicuspid; D003188:Composite Resins; D000075202:Contraindications; D003479:Curriculum; D001840:Dental Bonding / Q000379:methods; D003737:Dental Cavity Preparation / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods; D003775:Dental Polishing / Q000379:methods; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods; D003814:Dentistry, Operative / Q000193:education*; D034742:Electronic Mail; D005250:Fees, Dental; D006801:Humans; D008963:Molar; D012575:Schools, Dental; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*; D014481:United States
D003188:Composite Resins