An internet-mediated investigation into the clinical use of rubber dam isolation by general dental practitioners within the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 – Part 2: Clinical applications

Aims To investigate the reported clinical applications of rubber dam isolation by UK GDPs using an internet-mediated approach. Methods The data were collected in 2019, using an online (SurveyMonkeyTM) questionnaire that was distributed to GDPs in a private group on FacebookTM. The percentages are based on the number of respondents who answered each given question. Results The response rate was 61% with 403 valid completed questionnaires. The majority 395 (98%) of respondents reported using rubber dam in clinical practice. Undergraduate training in rubber dam use was received by 382 (98%) respondents, with greater training reported by younger, more recently, qualified graduates. The main clinical applications of rubber dam included its use for composite restorations, endodontic and internal bleaching procedures. Whilst, for other clinical procedures the majority of respondents did not use rubber dam. For posterior and anterior composites, 332 (82%) and 298 (74%) respondents respectively, reported using rubber dam isolation at least rarely. At least 98% (395) of the respondents used rubber dam for endodontic procedures irrespective of tooth-type and position. Over 70% (281) of respondents reported using rubber dam at least rarely for internal bleaching. Rubber dam was used by 99% (392) and 67% (262) of respondents on adults and paediatric patients respectively. Conclusions The main clinical applications agree with previous reports, but highlight an increase in rubber dam use. This study investigated a wider range of clinical applications compared to previous studies, adding to the literature surrounding rubber dam use.