The concepts of minimally invasive dentistry and its impact on clinical practice: a survey with a group of Dentists in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: the study was conducted to assess the associations between the demographic characteristics of participating dentists in Saudi Arabia and their restorative decisions for occlusal and proximal lesions. Their knowledge regarding caries diagnosis and management was assessed also. Materials and Methods: this is a cross-sectional study directed toward dentists practicing in Saudi Arabia. An online survey consisted of occlusal and proximal caries lesions. Results: For occlusal caries lesion the majority of dentists (48%) recommended removal of carious tissue when it is confined to enamel. A significant difference was found between dentists who are dealing with dental caries and other dentists. They recommend the use of composite resin for their first caries stage that requires treatment. For proximal lesions, females significantly (p=0.003) chose to restore the tooth at more advanced stage than males, composite was the first restorative material to be chosen for proximal lesions. Conclusion: The restorative decision for dentists practicing in Saudi Arabia were similar to other parts of the world. Occlusal caries lesions were easier to detect and to decide when and how to restore them. Female dentists were more towards minimally invasive dentistry than males in their decisions.