Composite resin restorations: a cross-sectional survey of placement and replacement in Jordan

Aims: To record the reasons for first time placement and replacement of composite resin restorations in Jordan, to determine the use of composite resin restorations in common cavity types and to collect data on the age of the replaced composite resin restorations. Subjects and setting: Dentists in Jordan (n=241). Method: Cross-sectional study using postal survey backed up with personal contact. Data were recorded for all restorations placed or replaced over a period of one month. Results: Information was collected on 2,239 restorations from patients aged 12-65 years. Of all restorations, 61.6% were first time placements while 38.4% were replacement of old restorations. The major reason for the first time placement of restorations was primary caries while that for replacement was secondary caries 36.2%, followed by root canal therapy 22.2%, discolouration 14.4%, lost restorations 13.4%, composite fracture 11.3%, pain or sensitivity 2.4%. Conclusions: The main reason for first time placement of composite restorations is primary caries; the main reason for replacement is secondary caries.