CDA Essentials 2018 • Volume 5 • Issue 5

N ews and E vents performs better than composite in environments with high susceptibility to caries, where it is difficult to control moisture, and in situations when a big restoration is needed. On the other hand, composites may perform better in patients with low caries susceptibility, as long as it is possible to maintain a dry field. Other factors that influenced dentists in their choice of restoration materials included funding and reimbursement, whether the practice was in a public or private setting, provider attitudes, education and training, and patient perceptions and preferences towards amalgam and composite restorations. The follow-up time of studies used in clinical reviews of efficacy and safety is an important consideration; Mr. Kamel notes that the studies used in the CADTH report had a minimum three-year follow-up, but there is a need for studies that follow patients over a longer term. “Restorative materials are in the mouth for a decade or more, so at issue is what is the appropriate length of time to follow patients if we want to identify failure rates and secondary caries?” he asks. Mr. Kamel also recognizes that composite resin materials are continually being developed in an effort to improve their clinical performance. “As composite materials become more refined and change in quality, there will be an ongoing need to continue to evaluate the longevity and safety of these materials,” he adds. “The bottom line,” says Dr. Soucy, “is that dentists should use the most appropriate material for the individual patient, in consultation with the patient.” a Reference 1. Composite Resin versus Amalgam for Dental Restorations: A Health Technology Assessment. Ottawa: CADTH; 2018Mar. A CADTH Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is a comprehensive evaluation of the clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and the ethical, legal, and social implications of health technologies on patient health and the health care system. The work is carried out by a multidisciplinary team of researchers whose composition is appropriate to the nature of the project. Before being released, HTAs are peer-reviewed by external clinical, economic, and methodological experts as appropriate and internal CADTH staff. To listen to Chris Kamel discuss the CADTH report findings, visit oasisdiscussions.ca?p=22668 A Heartfelt Thank You to... Exclusive Sponsor of the CanadianDental Association 2018 President’s Installation Dinner 2018 Reader Survey Complete our brief online survey and be eligible to win a $200 VISA gift card (1), $50 VISA gift card (3), or $20 Starbucks e-gift card (10). cda-adc.ca/readersurvey