Retrospective Audit of Posterior Composite Quality and Longevity
A well-placed, well-carved and functional posterior composite benefits the patient by
providing value for money and improving the long-term prognosis of the tooth.
For the dentist a well-placed, well-carved and functional posterior composite that
stands the tests of time will enhance dentist/patient relationships and provide
reassurance that good quality treatment is being delivered.
This audit will help identify any recurrent problems.
Aim: To assess the quality and longevity of posterior composites placed in your
practice.
Objectives: To measure the quality and longevity of 20 posterior composites using
the 11 different criteria detailed below.
To identify any problems.
To decide on any future action points.
Once you have completed this audit please let us know any suggestions you may have
to improve the format, or any suggestions for future cookbook audits.
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In this audit we ask that you examine a sample of posterior composites placed (....) +
years ago. All posterior composites, NHS and Private, should be included.
We include here a model grid that you can use to carry out your retrospective audit.
We suggest you record the findings from the first 20 consecutive posterior
composites, over (....) years old, viewed at recall examination.
Once you have completed your audit you should analyse the results and decide
whether any action needs to be taken to improve your posterior composite quality and
longevity.
We suggest that, before you start, you set yourself a % target you would like to
achieve, and compare your results to that target.
Name…………………………………………………………………………………
G.D.C. No……………………………………………………………………………
Practice Address…………………………………………………………………….
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Practice Tel. No………………………………………………………………………
Contact Email Address……………………………………………………………….
Target at start of audit…………% of posterior composites I placed (.....) + years ago
will pass the 11 criteria listed below.
Posterior
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Composites
Inflammatory
tissue
response
Recurrent
caries at
gingival
margin
Tooth
extracted
Tooth later
root-filled
Composite
replaced
Poor contact
point (s) /
food trapping
Pitting at
margins on
occlusal
surface
Perforation
in occlusal
surface
Gingival
overhangs
Absence of
anatomical
tooth form
Occlusal
interferences
or lack of
occlusion
None of the
above
Date placed
(mm
/yy)
Audit Summary Sheet
Audit date:………………………………………………………………………………
Comments on findings:
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Strengths:
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Weaknesses:
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Proposed action:
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Signature:……………………………………………………………………………….