Study of the Dental Practitioners Criteria for the Selection of Restorative Materials for Primary Teeth

The appropriate choice of restorative material is essential for the successful dental treatment in children. This choice is rarely based on well-defined criteria and usually depends on the personal preference of the clinician. The aim of this research is to study the opinion of dental practitioners according the main criteria for the selection of restorative materials in the treatment of caries in primary teeth. Materials and methods: A direct anonymous poll is conducted within 75 trainees in dental medicine and 160 dental practitioners with different professional experience and qualification. The factors influencing their choice for restorative material are studied. Results: Regardless of the experience and qualification of respondents, the choice of restorative material for primary teeth is entirely subjective and is not based on clear criteria according to the patient's individual risk profile, which is a prerequisite for the failure of the treatment of dental caries.