Comparison of operative techniques between female and male dentists in class 2 and class 5 resin composite restorations

Abstract

This study aimed to assess whether the gender of the dental practitioner affects operative techniques in class 2 and class 5 resin composite restorations. In 2008, a nationwide survey was given to Korean den- tists. Total 12,193 e-mails were distributed, 2,632 were opened by recipients, and 840 responses were col- lected. Of the respondents, 78.9% were male and 21.1% were female. The gender distribution in the age groups between respondents and the total population did not differ (p > 0.05). A chi-square test was used to compare technical differences between female and male dentists. A multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between gender and operative techniques in resin composite restoration. For class 2 resin composite restoration, female dentists were 1.87 times more likely than male dentists to do multiple incremental fillings (four layers or more) and 2.72 times more likely than males to spend 30 minutes or more for the treatment (p < 0.05). For class 5 resin composite restoration, female dentists were 2.69 times more likely than their male counterparts to use a cavity base or liner, 1.83 times more likely to do multiple incremental fillings (four layers or more) and 1.63 times more likely to spend 20 minutes or more for the procedure (p < 0.05). The gender factor was influential to individual operative techniques in restorative treatment.