Teaching of composite restoration repair in Brazilian dental schools.

Objectives: The aim was to investigate aspects of the teaching of restoration repair as a minimally invasive alternative to replacing defective direct composite restorations in undergraduate curricula teaching programs in Brazilian dental schools.

Methods: A 14-item validated survey questionnaire was mailed to directors/coordinators of operative/restorative dentistry teachers of Brazilian Dental Schools. Data were collected on demographic characteristics of the teachers and institutions, together with questions on the teaching of the repair of defective resin-based composite restorations as part of the school curriculum; the rationale behind the teaching; the nature of the teaching (preclinical and/or clinical); how techniques were taught, indications for repair, operative techniques, materials used, patient acceptability and expected longevity of completed repairs.

Teaching of the repair of defective composite restorations in Middle Eastern and North African Dental Schools.

Objectives: To evaluate the status of teaching of repair of defective resin-based composite restorations in dental schools in the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries.

Methods: A validated 14-item questionnaire was mailed to the directors of the operative/restorative dentistry department in 40 MENA dental schools. Data were collected on teaching, including whether the repair of resin-based composite restorations was part of the dental school curriculum; the rationale behind the teaching; how techniques were taught, indications for repair, operative techniques, materials used, patient acceptability and expected longevity of the repair procedure.

Tattoos of the Head, Neck and Hands.

Tattooing is ancient and gaining popularity in present day society. While many tattoos are decorative body art, certain tattoos of the head, neck and hands may provide helpful insights into, among other traits, the personality, beliefs or orientation of an individual.

Factors influencing repair of dental restorations with resin composite.

The presentation of patients with dental restorations that exhibit minor defects is one of the commonest clinical situations in the practice of general dentistry. The repair of such restorations, rather than replacement, is increasingly considered to be a viable alternative to replacement of the defective restoration. This paper considers factors influencing the repair of direct restorations, including indications and details of relevant techniques, based on the best available knowledge and understanding of this important aspect of minimal intervention dentistry.

The opinions of manufacturers of resin-based composite materials towards the repair of failing composite restorations.

Aim: To investigate the opinions of manufacturers of resin-based composite (RBC) towards the repair of their materials.

Methods: Representatives of 20 manufacturers of RBC were electronically mailed a questionnaire seeking information on aspects of the repair of direct composite restorations.

Results: The response rate was 100%.