A survey of contemporary philosophies and techniques of restoring endodontically treated teeth in Kuwait

Objective: Numerous methods of restoring endodontically treated teeth have been advocated, and the prognosis of the treatment varies depending on the materials and techniques used. The objective of this study was to improve the understanding of contemporary philosophies and techniques of restoring endodontically treated teeth in Kuwait to serve as a baseline for continuous quality improvement of dental care in Kuwait. Methods: A questionnaire (English and Arabic versions) that comprehensively reviewed philosophies and techniques of restoring endodontically treated teeth was prepared. A research assistant identified prosthodontists, endodontists and general dentists practicing in government clinics in Kuwait. The sample represented 63% of the prosthodontists employed by the Ministry of Health, 91% of the endodontists and 7% of the general practitioners. Surveys were hand-carried by the research assistant and distributed to all dentists in the study group. Although all responses were anonymous, all surveys were numbered for tracking, and the research assistant returned to the government clinics repeatedly until all questionnaires (100%) were recovered. Data from the returned questionnaires were tabulated and statistical analysis for associations was conducted by using χ2 tests. Results: Almost 60% of dentists in the survey involved in the treatment of endodontically treated teeth believed a post would reinforce the tooth. One third of the respondents used or recommended the use of one-piece dowel crowns (Richmond crowns). One third lacked familiarity with the ferrule effect, and several misconceptions relative to the optimal length of a post were also recorded. The vast majority of general dentists in the survey did not report involvement in the treatment of 30 or more endodontically treated teeth per year. Conclusions: The majority of the respondents misunderstood the purpose of a post, and there were misconceptions regarding the optimal length of a post. One third did not report familiarity with the ferrule effect, which is an important restorative component. One third used or recommended an obsolete method of restoration with a one-piece dowel crown. Copyright © 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel.