The teaching of Class I and II restorations in primary molars: a survey of North American dental schools.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to obtain an overview of materials and restoratives techniques taught for Class I and Class II restorations in primary molars in different pediatric dentistry departments in North America. METHODS A form with response alternatives was mailed to 63 dental schools in the United States and Canada. The forms were addressed to the chairman/undergraduate program director of the department of pediatric dentistry. Questions regarding the restorative materials taught, indications and contraindications for the use of tooth-colored materials and the type of cavity preparation indicated for those materials were among the topics assessed. RESULTS Eighty-six percent of the dental schools responded to the survey. Amalgam continues to be the material of choice for Class I and II restorations in primary molars, although hybrid composites and compomers are gaining some popularity. When tooth-colored materials were indicated, the slot-type of cavity preparation was the preferred one. CONCLUSIONS The diversity in teaching may reflect uncertainty related to requirements for optimal restorations of primary teeth. Data from dental schools of other countries may be important to obtain to establish universally accepted criteria and standards for restorative techniques of primary teeth.