Influence of method of funding on the age of failed restorations in general dental practice in the UK

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effect of the method of funding treatment on the age of restorations at the time of replacement. METHOD: A group of general dental practitioners were recruited to take part in the study. Each participant was asked to record the reason for placement and replacement of restorations. The age and class of the restoration being replaced was also recorded, together with details of the material being used and the material being replaced. Details of the method of payment of the failed restoration were recorded. RESULTS: Details of the reason for placement/replacement were received for 3,196 restorations from 32 GDPs. Of the restorations placed, 54% were amalgam, 32% composite, 8% compomer and 7% glass ionomer. The age of restorations at the time of replacement was significantly associated with the method of payment for the restoration, with restorations placed in the Armed Forces having been in service significantly longer at the time of their replacement than restorations placed under NHS regulations. CONCLUSION: Statistical analysis indicated that restorations placed within the NHS regulations were replaced at a significantly lower age than restorations placed under the other funding arrangements investigated.