A Randomised Controlled Trial of a Universal Bonding Agent at Three Years: Self Etch vs Total Etch.

General dental practice is increasingly being recognised as the ideal situation for the conduct of clinical trials into the longevity of restorations. The aim of this study was to investigate the survival of 64 nanofilled resin composite (Filtek Supreme XTE) restorations placed principally in loadbearing cavities using a Universal dentine bonding agent (Scotchbond Universal), in five UK dental practices by members of the UK-based practice-based research group, the PREP Panel. A split mouth design was used, comprising patients who required two restorations, with one of the restorations receiving a total etch approach using phosphoric acid and the other being placed using a self-etch approach. The results indicated good performance of the restorations examined, with no difference, in terms of marginal characteristics, between the restorations which received total etching and those which did not.

Disposable non-sterile gloves: a policy for appropriate usage.

Since the implementation of universal precautions, the use of disposable gloves has become part of everyday clinical practice. Guidance has been published to advise healthcare workers of the risks of latex allergies associated with the wearing of powdered latex gloves. The literature supports the use of gloves when contact with blood or body fluids is likely. However, an audit of glove usage indicated that practitioners were wearing gloves inappropriately, i.e. to wash patients (20%). The results of this study also demonstrated that a small percentage of staff (20%) were wearing vinyl gloves to deal with blood spillages and for venepuncture (13%) and cannulation (10%). A glove policy and a flow chart to assist staff in the selection of gloves were introduced. An educational programme for all hospital staff was commenced. These measures can assist healthcare workers in making an informed choice regarding glove usage.