UWCScholar :: Browsing by Author "Khan, Saadika"

Browsing by Author "Khan, Saadika"

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Ability of 5th year Students to Detect Early Interproximal Caries
(2021) Muzan, Abdalla; Khan, Saadika
Objective: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the diagnostic capability of 5th year students using digital imaging, conventional bitewing radiographs (BW), printed film on paper and to compare the results with the observers’ experience level to detect early interproximal caries lesions on radiographs. To map the literature in regards to different diagnostic methods that students use globally in dental clinics by conducting a scoping review. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with senior dental students (Reg No: BM 19/9/8). Three digital radiographs were shown individually to the students on a screen, 3 bitewing radiographs and 3 printed films on paper were passed on individually to all students with a questionnaire; with a viewing time of 2 mins per radiograph; thus 9 radiographs in total were viewed. A control group consisting of specialists from both the Restorative and Radiology Departments had finalized the answers prior to conducting the study regarding the presence/absence of caries and its depth on all 3 different radiographic images. The answers recorded by students were divided into 5 categories, R0: Intact surface, R1: Radiolucency in outer half of enamel, R2: Radiolucency in inner half of enamel, R3: Radiolucency in outer half of dentin, and R4: Radiolucency in inner half of dentin. A protocol specific for the objectives of this study was developed according to the criteria for a scoping reviews. Relevant databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Ebscohost, Science Direct, Wiley Online Library and Cochrane Library) were searched to identify evidence which was restricted to the English language for the period 2015–2021. Results: Comparison using an Anova test on the 3 different diagnostic methods showed that the type of method used affects the presence detection and size measuring accuracy, where the P-value confirms a significant difference. The Prisma flow diagram showed a result of the most common methods for diagnosing interproximal caries happen to be visual examination and bitewing radiography. Conclusions: Senior dental students have shown good accuracy in detecting the presence of interproximal caries. Although the accuracy in detecting the size of carious lesions was poor.
Aesthetic clasp design for removable partial dentures: A literature review
(South African Dental Association (SADA), 2005) Khan, Saadika; Geerts, Greta
Removable partial dentures (RPD) are an effective and affordable treatment option for partial edentulism. If the main reason for seeking treatment is the need for improved aesthetics, treatment should be geared towards achieving this goal. This article is the result of a literature study on aesthetic clasp design for the conventional RPD. In this context, the position of the clasp on the tooth, clasp types, clasp material and alternative methods of retention are reviewed. Although published in reputable journals, the authors report that many articles published on this subject are of a descriptive nature and lack scientific evidence. Therefore, clinicians are encouraged to be critical in their interpretation of literature and the application of published information in their clinical practices.
The colour stability of various glass ionomer cements
(University of the Western Cape, 2019) Karjiker, Farzana; Moodley, Desigar; Khan, Saadika
Introduction: Together with bonding to both enamel and dentine, an ideal restorative material would display physical properties similar to that of natural tooth tissue and would not be prone to degradation as a result of the oral environment. This includes changes in colour. Glass ionomer technology has undergone many changes to its original chemistry since it was developed in the early 1970’s. In 1988 resin-modified glass ionomers were introduced and in 2008, nano-ionomers were introduced. As a result of the progression in material sciences and the use of more sophisticated techniques and methods in restorative dentistry, it is possible to accomplish much improved aesthetics and functional durability of a restoration, both anteriorly and posteriorly. However, for as long as aesthetic restorations have been available, and in spite of advances in material structure and performance, one of the greatest challenges facing clinicians still remains that aesthetic restorations have to be replaced relatively frequently as staining and discolouration is a common problem. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to determine the stainability of four resin-modified glass ionomers and one glass ionomer cement when exposed to a staining broth. Objectives: To record any change in colour before and after exposing the sample with the staining broth using a spectrophotometer, to compare the stainability, to examine the depth of staining using a light microscope and to observe the particle size of the powder and the surface texture using Scanning Electron Microscopy of the four resin- modified glass ionomer cements and one glass ionomer cement. Materials and Methods: Four resin-modified glass ionomers (one nano-ionomer) and one glass ionomer (zinc-reinforced ionomer) were selected. All were shade A2, except for Vitremer™ which was not available in A2. 15 discs of each material were prepared. The discs were 15 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness. All the materials were handled and cured according to the manufacturers’ instructions. After curing, only one side of each disc was polished using Sof-Lex™ discs (3M ESPE, USA). The unpolished side of each disc was designated as a matrix finish. The specimens were all immersed in distilled water at 37 °C for one week. They were then immersed in a staining broth for a period of one week and readings were taken after a period of 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 24 hours and one week. Colour was read on each side of each disc at the indicated intervals with a spectrophotometer. The colour difference was calculated using the CIELAB colour co-ordinates. Sample discs were then sectioned to determine the depth of staining. An additional sample disc of each material was made for observation with the SEM and was therefore not stained. Also, an unmixed sample of each material was prepared for examination with the SEM. Results: In general, for all materials there was an increase in staining when assessed with the colour difference between the baseline colour and the 7 day reading. Ketac™ N100, showed the highest total colour change of 43.84 for the unpolished surface followed by Riva™ which showed the total colour change of 28.55 for the unpolished surface. This was similar to Fuji II LC® which had a total colour change of 28.16 for the unpolished surface. For Vitremer™, the total colour change increased to 18.07 for the unpolished surface. For the unpolished surfaces, ChemFil™ Rock showed the least colour difference from baseline to 7 days (ΔE*ab = 10.45), followed by Vitremer™ (ΔE*ab = 18.07). Both Fuji II LC® and Riva™ Light Cure showed similar colour change from baseline to 7 days for unpolished surfaces (ΔE*ab of 28.16 and 28.55 respectively). Ketac™ N100 showed the highest staining after 7 days in the staining broth with a colour difference of 43.84. For the polished surfaces, the colour change for Fuji II LC® was 25.72 which was similar to Riva™ Light Cure which was 22.44 and Ketac™ N100 which showed a colour change of 22.79 on the polished surface. ChemFil™ Rock showed the least colour change of 17.69 for the polished surface followed by Vitremer™ which showed a colour change of 23.63 for the polished surface. Thus, for both the unpolished and polished surfaces there was a similar staining pattern. Conclusion: In this study it was demonstrated that all products evaluated in this study showed some degree of staining when exposed to a staining broth when evaluated using the ΔE*ab CIELAB colour evaluation. Ketac™ N100 showed the highest colour change compared to the other materials, but the reason for this was not explored. Both Vitremer™ and ChemFil™ Rock showed similar patterns of staining.
Comparison between immediate and conventional implant loading for fixed and removable prosthesis
(University of the Western Cape, 2022) Palanyandi, Celeste; Khan, Saadika
Literature states that different loading systems have been explored; and are used depending on the clinical situation. The success with each of these systems also differs with regards to quality of bone, the length and diameter of an implant, whether the implant is placed anteriorly or posteriorly, as well as number of implants inserted. This thesis will focus on these aspects to better guide clinical decision makers and practitioners on deciding which loading system can be best suited for the patient. Different types of loading systems include immediate, early, and conventional dental loading. Immediate loading refers to a prosthesis being attached to an implant within 24 hours.
Determining the Dimensional Stability, Fracture Toughness and Flexural Strength of Light-cured Acrylic Resin Custom Tray Material
(European Journal of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry, 2009-06) Khan, Saadika; Geerts, Greta VM
Light-cured acrylic resin custom tray material is used in commercial dental laboratories but little evidence- based scientific information on its physical properties is available. Objectives: This study investigates the dimensional stability of light-cured acrylic resin custom tray material and compares its fracture toughness and flexural strength to a chemically-cured acrylic material. Method: For dimensional stability, 20 light-cured specimens were fabricated and measured 3 times at regular time intervals over 48 hours. Mean shrinkage was calculated for each time interval and the mean values were compared to the standard using the Wilcoxon Rank Sum test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. For fracture toughness, 2 groups of 20 light-cured and chemically-cured acrylic materials with a single-edge notch were subjected to a compressive load using the 3-point bending technique. For flexural strength, 1 group (n=20) of each material was subjected to a compressive load using 3-point bending. The highest load before failure was used to calculate the fracture toughness and flexural strength. Differences in fracture toughness and flexural strength values between the 2 groups were compared using ANOVA testing. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. The chemically-cured group was accepted as the control group. Results: Compared to the standard, shrinkage was significant for all time intervals (p<0.05). The difference in shrinkage among time intervals was not significant (p>0.05). The fracture toughness and flexural strength were significantly higher for the light-cured material. Conclusions: Trays made from light-cured acrylic resin can be used immediately following polymerization. The light-cured material is more resistant to bending and crack propagation than the chemically-cured type.
Differences in functional outcomes for adult patients with prosthodontically-treated and -untreated shortened dental arches : a systematic review
(Public Library of Science, 2014) Khan, Saadika; Musekiwa, Alfred; Chikte, Usuf; Omar, Ridwaan
This review examined differences in functional outcomes and patient satisfaction when shortened dental arches are left untreated compared to their restoration to complete arch lengths with different prosthodontic interventions. Methods: A protocol was developed according to the criteria for a systematic review. All relevant databases were searched to identify appropriate clinical trials regardless of language or publication status. Predetermined eligibility criteria were applied, trial quality assessed and data extracted for each study. Relevant outcomes assessed were: functioning ability, patient satisfaction and harmful effects on oral structures. Results: Searches yielded 101 articles: 81 from electronic databases and 20 from reference lists of retrieved articles (PEARLing searches). Sixty-nine citations were assessed for eligibility after removing 32 duplicate records. After reading titles and abstracts, a total of 41 records were excluded and the full-texts of the remaining 28 records were read. Only 21 records were included for the SR because 7 records were excluded after reading the full-text reports. These 21 records report the outcomes of four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one non-randomized clinical trial (CT) which were pre-specified and used for this review. No on-going studies were found and no eligible studies were excluded for failure to report the reviewer’s pre-specified outcomes. Outcomes were reported in the retrieved 21 articles. A narrative explanation of the prespecified outcomes is reported for the 3 comparison groups (which were based on the different interventions used for the individual clinical trials). The shortened dental arch as a treatment option is encouraging in terms of functioning, patient satisfaction and cost-effectiveness. By using only high quality studies it was expected that the results would be more reliable when making conclusions and recommendations, but some of the included studies had to be downgraded due to methodological errors.
Does smartphone connectivity impact on undergraduate dental students' environmental stress?
(2018) Khan, Saadika
INTRODUCTION: Several studies have suggested that smartphone addiction has negative effects on mental health and academic performance and may contribute to the development of stress. AIM: To determine the prevalence of smartphone addiction and its impact on stress levels of students registered for the degree BChD in 2017 at the University of the Western Cape. OBJECTIVES: To establish the impact of smartphone addiction and associated stress levels on student performance. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study with a convenience sample of dental students, based on a self-administered closed-ended questionnaires:" Dental Environment Stress and Smartphone Addiction Scale". The responses were statistically analysed. RESULTS: Ethical clearance was obtained for the study. The Mann-Whitney test output indicates no difference in attachment between smartphone and non-smartphone owners (p=0.615). Students agreed that mobile devices could be used for academic purposes but not that this usage be made compulsory. CONCLUSION: More stress is experienced in certain domains and students displayed some degree of attachment, not addiction, to their smartphones. Serious impacts may be experienced by non-smartphone owners.
Effect of active learning techniques on students’ choice of approach to learning in Dentistry: a South African case study
(Unisa Press, 2011) Khan, Saadika
The purpose of this article is to report on empirical work, related to a techniques module, undertaken with the dental students of the University of the Western Cape, South Africa. I will relate how a range of different active learning techniques (tutorials; question papers and mock tests) assisted students to adopt a deep approach to learning in this large diverse group of students. They then completed an adapted version of the revised study process questionnaire which focussed on the effects of these active learning techniques and how these learning techniques assisted with a change in approach to learning adopted by them. Results indicated that the active learning techniques led to a better understanding of the concepts covered within the module. It also showed how the new exercises guided them to adopt a deep approach to learning. It can be concluded that with this type of educational research, students’ learning difficulties are not just emphasized and highlighted but that these problems are also understood. This research also guided the educator to search for practical solutions to these observed difficulties
The effect of different types of smoking on teeth and nanocomposites
(University of the Western Cape, 2022) Ibrahim, Yasmin; Khan, Saadika
Tobacco is one of the most notoriously misused psychoactive substances among the world's rural and urban populations (Omare et al., 2021). WHO reported that more than eight million individuals die every year from tobacco use (WHO, 2019). This number is predicted to rise to ten million deaths by 2031 (Nidhi and Singh, 2019). Smoking tobacco has increased, and new consumption methods become a trend amongst young people (Pisinger and Døssing, 2014).
Featuring dental education research: Applying the principles of action research to improve teaching of dental prosthetics
(South African Dental Association, 2009) Khan, Saadika
This article focuses on educational research conducted at the newly merged UWC faculty of dentistry. The research emphasizes the change in teaching methods employed to address the concerns experienced in teaching large classes as observed in the prosthetic techniques module. These educational interventions were conducted over 5 years and the study design included the principles of action research. Students were assisted in learning the theory of the practical procedures and the subsequent completion of these procedures with the accurate application of the theoretical concepts. Changes in the teaching methods enhanced students learning and successful translation of the theory into practical work. The active learning exercises incorporated into the teaching further motivated and assisted students with deep learning. The debates indicated that students accepted and valued the module as part of their training.
Featuring dental education research: Applying the principles of action research to improve the teaching of dental prosthetics
(South African Dental Association (SADA), 2009) Khan, Saadika
This article focuses on educational research conducted at the newly merged UWC faculty of dentistry. The research emphasises the change in teaching methods employed to address the concerns experienced in teaching the new large classes as observed in the prosthetic techniques module. These educational interventions were conducted over 5 years and the study design included the principles of action research. Students were assisted in learning the theory of the practical procedures and the subsequent completion of these procedures with the accurate application of the theoretical concepts. Changes in the teaching methods enhanced students learning and successful translation of the theory into practical work. The active learning exercises incorporated into the teaching further motivated and assisted students with deep learning. The debates indicated that students know and accept the value of the module as part of their training.
From classroom teaching to clinical practice: experiences of senior dental students regarding the shortened dental arch concept
(Journal of Dental Education, 2014) Khan, Saadika; Chikte, Usuf; Omar, Ridwaan
This study explored the barriers to a meaningful translation of didactic classroom instruction to clinical practice, using the shortened dental arch (SDA) concept as a case study. A combination of survey and individual and group interviews (a mixed- methods approach) was used to collect data related to the SDA. The cohort consisted of senior dental students and their clinical teachers at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa. The response rates were 100 percent for the students (n=73) and 78 percent for the clinical teachers (n=16). Triangulation was employed to eliminate bias and strengthen the reliability of the re- search. In the quantitative analysis, most students (81 percent) reported having heard about the SDA concept at the university, but their responses revealed an absence of clinical implementation. The students agreed that patients can function adequately with an SDA and agreed with presenting it as a treatment option to patients. In the qualitative analysis, a “change in the clinical require- ments,” “being empowered by exposing them to SDA literature,” and “change in health policies” were recommended measures to increase implementation of the SDA approach clinically. The students were positive about the SDA as a treatment option, but the lack of adequate knowledge and encouragement in clinical implementation was a hindrance to its use.
Impact of removable partial dental prostheses on the oral health-related quality of life of a South African cohort with varied distributions of missing posterior teeth
(Wiley, 2017) Khan, Saadika; Chikte, Usuf; Omar, Ridwaan
PURPOSE: To determine the impact of removable partial dental prostheses on satisfying the daily functioning and quality of life (QoL) of adult patients with different distributions of missing posterior teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional interventional study was carried out on 80 patients having variously distributed posteriorly shortened and interrupted arches. Treatment comprised provision of partial dentures by senior dental students, supervised by senior clinical teachers who had knowledge of the potential benefits of the shortened dental arch (SDA) concept. The Oral Impacts on Daily Performance Index was completed before and 6 months after prosthetic treatment across groups comprising Kennedy Classes I, II, and III arches. Analysis included descriptive statistics and associations and comparisons between variables. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 57.4 years (SD=13.1),many were retired (72.2%), and a majority were females (60%). Most patients lived in urban areas (95%), and were largely unemployed (63.3%). At pre-treatment, only 31.3% of patients reported having good dental health and satisfaction with their current oral state, while 82.5% said they had a great need for treatment. The negative oral impacts that were most frequently experienced were those of eating (67.5%), smiling (50%), and being emotionally disturbed (63.8%). Post-treatment, 76.3% indicated good oral health and satisfaction with no significant differences between the 3 Kennedy groups. Any further negative impacts were reported mostly for Kennedy Classes I and II. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, significant reductions of negative impacts were observed following treatment with dentures, across the 3 Kennedy groups,with respect to improved function, satisfaction, and oral health-related QoL. The findings confirm the reliance by partially dentate patients in all 3 Kennedy groups on dentures for improved oral health, although the possible benefits of the SDA concept as an alternative treatment option was not specifically explored.
Oral health practices and self-reported adverse effects of E-cigarette use among dental students in 11 countries: An online survey
(BMC Oral Health, 2022) Khan, Saadika
Objectives E-cigarette use has become popular, particularly among the youth. Its use is associated with harmful general and oral health consequences. This survey aimed to assess self-reported oral hygiene practices, oral and general health events, and changes in physiological functions (including physical status, smell, taste, breathing, appetite, etc.) due to E-cigarette use among dental students. Methods This online, multicounty survey involved undergraduate dental students from 20 dental schools across 11 different countries. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics, E-cigarette practices, self-reported complaints, and associated physiological changes due to E-cigarette smoking. Data were descriptively presented as frequencies and percentages. A Chi-square test was used to assess the potential associations between the study group and sub-groups with the different factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS at P < 0.05. Results Most respondents reported regular brushing of their teeth, whereas only 70% used additional oral hygiene aids. Reported frequencies of complaints ranged from as low as 3.3% for tongue inflammation to as high as 53.3% for headache, with significant differences between E-cigarette users and non-users. Compared to non-smokers, E-cigarette users reported significantly higher prevalence of dry mouth (33.1% vs. 23.4%; P < 0.001), black tongue (5.9% vs. 2.8%; P = 0.002), and heart palpitation (26.3%% vs. 22.8%; P = 0.001). Although two-thirds of the sample reported no change in their physiological functions, E-cigarette users reported significant improvement in their physiological functions compared to never smokers or tobacco users. Conclusion Dental students showed good oral hygiene practices, but E-cigarette users showed a higher prevalence of health complications.
Oral health practices and self‑reported adverse effects of e‑cigarette use among dental students in 11 countries: An online survey
(BMC, 2022) Alhajj, Mohammed Nasser; Al‑Maweri, Sadeq Ali; Khan, Saadika
E-cigarette use has become popular, particularly among the youth. Its use is associated with harmful general and oral health consequences. This survey aimed to assess self-reported oral hygiene practices, oral and general health events, and changes in physiological functions (including physical status, smell, taste, breathing, appetite, etc.) due to E-cigarette use among dental students. This online, multicounty survey involved undergraduate dental students from 20 dental schools across 11 different countries. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics, E-cigarette practices, self-reported complaints, and associated physiological changes due to E-cigarette smoking.
Outcomes with a posterior reduced dental arch: a randomised controlled trial
(Wiley, 2017) Khan, Saadika; Chikte, Usuf; Omar, Ridwaan
OBJECTIVE: To compare function, patient satisfaction and quality of life of patients with a posterior reduced mandibular arch with those who had all missing teeth replaced with removable partial dentures. METHODS: Patients with at least 3 and not more than 6 posterior occluding pairs of teeth were enrolled sequentially and randomized into one of two treatment groups: a denture and no denture group. A research assistant allocated interventions; concealment was ensured using opaque-sealed envelopes. Analysis of data was performed in stages, adding samples of 10 incrementally, and stopping when the relevant statistical tests indicated a clear conclusion as judged by the power set at 80% or above. Study outcomes included patient satisfaction, function and survival of remaining teeth at 3 and 12 months post-intervention, using a visual analogue scale and the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance) Statistical analysis was performed by the ‘intention-to-treat’ principle. RESULTS: Age range of included patients was 23-55 years (mean=42.3; SD=9.2), with 78% being females. Most patients (70%) belonged to the low- or no-income group. Nine patients left the study, for different reasons. Primary outcomes for the denture group: 10% of the patients were not satisfied and 20% were unhappy with their function; for the no-denture group: 85% of the patients (with 15% having left the study) were satisfied with both their function and their non-denture status. CONCLUSION: Patients with posterior reduced mandibular dental arches reported greater perceived satisfaction, function and quality of life compared to those who had received a cobalt-chrome clasp-retained partial removable prosthesis.
An Overview of Systematic Reviews Related to Aspects of the Shortened Dental Arch and Its Variants in Adults.
(International Journal of Prosthodontics, 2017-07) Khan, Saadika; Chikte, Usuf ME; Omar, Ridwaan
Aim To conduct an overview of systematic reviews (SRs) related to aspects of the shortened dental arch (SDA) and its variants, and critically appraise the methodological quality of the included SRs using the AMSTAR checklist. Methods A comprehensive computerized search and hand-searching of reference lists were conducted for SRs related SDAs to identify publications from 2000-2016. All authors and a research assistant independently screened the results of the electronic searches using an eligibility form and extracted information using a specially designed pre-piloted data extraction form. An 11-question AMSTAR checklist was completed for each included SR. Disputes were resolved by discussion between all researchers and results collated and interpreted. Results For the period 2007-2016, the search yielded 9 SRs incorporating 228 related articles. The research questions for each SR differed but were related to SDAs, thus the included articles were similar across SRs. Characteristics such as aims/objectives, study outcomes and conclusions of the 9 included SRs were compared. The AMSTAR evaluation indicated that 5 out of 9 studies were of a high quality (used a rigorous methodology) and the remaining 4 were of medium quality. All 9 SRs provided designs and characteristics of included studies. None of the SRs assessed publication bias. Conclusion Seven out of the nine SRs drew positive conclusions regarding the SDA concept, finding it functionally sound although some suggested that more high quality primary studies are still needed. The AMSTAR calculation indicated that most included SRs had an acceptable methodological quality, emphasizing the reliability of their results.
Perceptions regarding the shortened dental arch among dental practitioners in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
(South African Dental Association, 2012) Khan, Saadika; Chikte, Usuf; Omar, Ridwaan
AIMS and OBJECTIVES: This survey was conducted to de-termine the knowledge of and opinions related to the short-ened dental arch (SDA), among dentists in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. METHODS: The study sample included two consecutive groups, drawn by a process of randomisation from the reg-istered dentist population that included general dentists, specialists, those who had emigrated and retired dentists. A self-administered questionnaire was mailed, e-mailed and/or faxed to those selected. Reminders were either e-mailed or made by telephone over a period of six months. RESULTS: A final sample of 84 respondents with a mean age of 43 years (SD=11.9) was obtained. This represented a response rate of 23% (n= 84) from the final working sample (n=368), derived from the target group (n=618) originally con-tacted. All participants completed an informed consent form in which confidentiality was assured. Several respondents (40%) said they had heard about the SDA while at university, which would be in line with the age range of respondents in relation to introduction of the concept into dental curri-cula. As many as 62% had never read any research articles related to the concept which could partly account for the low response rate. The majority (86%) felt that patients can function with a SDA and that they would recommend ac-ceptance to their patients. CONCLUSION: Respondents know of the potential benefit that the SDA may have for their patients and see it as a viable alternative treatment option for the partially dentate patient, even though their level of current knowledge of the subject must be considered questionable.
Perceptions regarding the shortened dental arch among dental practitioners in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
(South African Dental Association, 2012) Khan, Saadika; Omar, Ridwaan; Chikte, Usuf
AIM AND OBJECTIVES: This survey was conducted to determine the knowledge of and opinions related to the shortened dental arch (SDA), among dentists in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. METHODS: The study sample included two consecutive groups, drawn by a process of randomisation from the registered dentist population that included general dentists, specialists, those who had emigrated and retired dentists. A self-administered questionnaire was mailed, e-mailed and/or faxed to those selected. Reminders were either e-mailed or made by telephone over a period of six months. RESULTS: A final sample of 84 respondents with a mean age of 43 years (SD=11.9) was obtained. This represented a response rate of 23% (n= 84) from the final working sample (n=368), derived from the target group (n=618) originally contacted. All participants completed an informed consent form in which confidentiality was assured. Several respondents (40%) said they had heard about the SDA while at university, which would be in line with the age range of respondents in relation to introduction of the concept into dental curricula. As many as 62% had never read any research articles related to the concept which could partly account for the low response rate. The majority (86%) felt that patients can function with a SDA and that they would recommend acceptance to their patients. CONCLUSION: Respondents know of the potential benefit that the SDA may have for their patients and see it as a viable alternative treatment option for the partially dentate patient, even though their level of current knowledge of the subject must be considered questionable.
The use of light-cured acrylic resin for custom trays by undergraduate dental students: a survey
(South African Dental Association, 2008) Khan, Saadika; Geerts, Greta
INTRODUCTION: It is unknown how the use of a light-cured acrylic resin is appreciated over the traditional chemically cured one for the construction of special trays in a teaching environment. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the acceptance of light-cured acrylic resin for special trays by dental students. METHOD: A questionnaire addressing the use and handling properties of both materials was distributed amongst undergraduate dental students of the University of the Western Cape. RESULTS: Of a total of 196 dental students, 38 were absent on the day of the survey. Of the 158 questionnaires that were distributed and returned, 18 did not meet the inclusion criteria and 1 person chose not to participate. Of the 139 participating students, 98 were in 4th year, 41 in 5th year. With regards to the light-cured resin, 77% used it most often, 64% said it saved time and 62 % said that it was easier to handle. Fifty two percent indicated that both types of materials should be taught in undergraduate training, 26% preferred light-cured, 20% suggested that only the light-cured resin be used and no one suggested the chemically-cured resin exclusively. CONCLUSIONS: Most undergraduate students positively accepted the light-cured resin, but training in the use of both materials was recommended.

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