INFLUENCE OF RUBBER DAM ISOLATION ON THE LONGEVITY OF THE DENTAL RESTORATIONS: DENTIST`S PERCEPTION WITH RESPECT TO GENDER

Abstract

Background: Effective isolation during restorative dental procedures plays a vital role in the longevity of dental restorations. The rubber dam is widely accepted as the most reliable method for achieving a dry and contaminant-free operative field, enhancing the success of restorations by preventing saliva, blood, and moisture contamination. Despite its proven clinical benefits, the routine use of rubber dam varies, potentially influenced by practitioner-related factors such as gender, clinical training, and perceptions of efficacy.

Objective: To determine the association between the gender of dental practitioners and the frequency of rubber dam usage, and to assess its perceived impact on the longevity of dental restorations.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the College of Dentistry, Sharif Medical and Dental College, Lahore, from May 2024 to May 2025. A total of 150 dental practitioners were recruited using non-probability convenient sampling. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board (Ref No. SMDC/SMRC/201-21), and informed consent was secured. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire that captured demographics, frequency of rubber dam use, and perception of its effect on restoration longevity. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23. Chi-square test was applied to assess associations, and a p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Among the participants, 44 (29.3%) were males and 106 (70.7%) were females, with a mean age of 23.29 ± 1.245 years. Frequent rubber dam usage was reported by 63.6% of males and 59.0% of females. The association between gender and frequency of use was statistically non-significant (p = 0.817). Additionally, 88.6% of male and 83.6% of female dentists believed that rubber dam contributes to restoration longevity, with this perception also showing a non-significant gender-based association (p = 0.385).

Conclusion: Both male and female dentists demonstrated commendable use of rubber dam and acknowledged its positive role in enhancing restoration longevity, regardless of gender differences.