Dental practice in the UK in 2015/2016. Part 3: aspects of indirect restorations and fixed prosthodontics

Objective This paper reports data which helps identify changes and trends in the provision of indirect fixed prostheses in general dental practice in the UK. To determine by means of an anonymous, self-report questionnaire, the current trend in the provision of fixed prosthodontic treatments, with a special emphasis on the choice of treatment modalities, techniques and materials. Methods The data presented were extracted from the data obtained from a validated, 121-question questionnaire distributed at random to general dental practitioners in the UK attending postgraduate meetings in 2015/2016, with a wide distribution of locations. Results A response rate exceeding 66% was achieved. Amalgam and light-cured composite were the preferred material for core build-up of vital teeth for around 62% of the respondents. Dentine pins were still being used by 66% of the respondents. The vast majority of respondents (92%) used a post and core to restore root-treated teeth. Fibre posts were the most commonly used (63%) type of preformed post among the respondents. Using the opposing and adjacent teeth as a reference to control tooth structure reduction during vital tooth preparation was the most common method, used by 42% of the respondents. Addition-cured silicone impression materials were the most frequently used impression material (78%). The surveyed practitioners were equally split between precious and non-precious metals as the substructure for indirect restorations. Glass-ionomer luting cements (47%) and resin-based cements (52%) were the most commonly used to cement porcelain fused to metal and zirconia indirect restorations, respectively. Laboratory made aesthetic veneers were prescribed by half of the respondents, while a third of them preferred direct resin composite as a veneer material. Conclusion Within the limitations of the study, it was concluded that there has been an increase in the use of adhesive bonding and metal-free restorations. Amalgam and dentine pins continued to be used, contrary to international trends. Studies of the type reported are considered important in investigating trends and developments in dentistry.