Considerations for restorative dentistry secondary care referrals - part 3: assessment of case complexity

Br Dent J. 2022 Aug;233(3):202-210. doi: 10.1038/s41415-022-4549-3. Epub 2022 Aug 12.

Abstract

Assessing the complexity of a case is a challenging exercise, with many tooth-specific as well as patient-specific considerations required. This decision is not made in isolation but goes hand in hand with the assessment of restorability, as well as strategic importance, both of which have been covered by the previous papers in this series. A number of guidelines regarding this matter have been devised in order to aid clinicians in determining the complexity of their patients and thus the most appropriate setting for their treatment. This paper aims to discuss the various complexity criteria available and their application, thus aiding clinicians in managing some of the more challenging cases.

MeSH terms

  • Dental Restoration, Permanent*
  • Dentistry
  • Humans
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Secondary Care
  • Tooth*