Dentistry

An overview of systematic reviews related to the shortened dental arch concept

20^th Annual World Dental Summit

March 20-22, 2017 Rome, Italy

Ridwaan Omar

Professor and Head of Prosthodontics, Universithy of Kuwait, Kuwait

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Dentistry

Abstract:

Aim: Aim of this study is to conduct an overview of systematic reviews (SRs) related to the shortened dental arch (SDA); 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 identity publication from 2000-2016. Review 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; and completed the AMSTAR checklist for each included SR. Disputes were resolved by discussion between all researchers and at all stages; and results collated and interpreted. Results: For the period 2007-2016, the search yielded nine 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 nine included SRs were compared. The AMSTAR evaluation (an 11-question tool) indicated that five out of nine studies were of a high quality (used a rigorous methodology) and the remaining four were of medium quality. All nine SRs provided designs and characteristics of included studies. None of the SRs assessed publication bias. Conclusions: Most SRs (7/9) had a positive attitude towards the SDA concept finding it functionally sound; though 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 reliance on these results.

Biography :

Ridwaan Omar completed his academic and professional education at Guy’s Hospital Dental School, University of London and Eastman Dental Institute, University of London. He is the Head of Prosthodontics and serves as Vice Dean for Academic and Clinical Affairs. He has published more than 60 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an Editorial Board Member of several scholarly international journals.

Email: romar.k@HSC.EDU.KW