Knowledge and Clinical Practice of Restoration Repair among Dental Undergraduate Students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The expeditious advances in minimally invasive dental techniques have led to more conservative treatment options for the repair and refurbishment of defective restorations. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and clinical practices of restoration repair in undergraduate courses in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: Data was collected using a survey questionnaire that was distributed using Google forms through social media platforms among undergraduate dental students from different universities in the central region of Saudi. Results: A total number of 316 undergraduate students responded, with 77.8% reported having been taught about restoration repair in their undergraduate preclinical courses and 77.2% having practiced restoration repair in their clinical courses. The dominant collective response of the students was that they would opt for repair over replacement to preserve tooth structure and protect the pulp. The most chosen indications for such were the correction of form and partial fractures. Composite was the material of choice for repair, and the students considered the size of the defect to be the most decisive factor in their clinical decision of whether to repair or replace defective restorations. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that restoration repair is taught in preclinical courses and is practiced in the clinic. Students at higher levels are more aware of the procedure and its indications. Based on available evidence, periodic evaluation of clinical teaching strategies, standardization of criteria, and terms are recommended to enhance teaching practice.