Treatment times of amalgam restorations

The aim of this study was to present information about treatment times for amalgam restorations and the factors influencing them. The study was carried out as part of a clinical trial. Following a written treatment protocol, 1044 class II restorations with two surfaces and 1433 restorations with three surfaces were made by seven operators. The statistical method consisted of an ANOVA after log. transformation of the treatment times. The mean total treatment time for two-surface restorations was 24 min and for three-surface restorations 30 min. The mean finishing and polishing time was 6.3 min. A significant effect on the treatment time was noted for: (1) operator, (2) size of the restorations, and (3) type of tooth (molar/premolar). The results of this study may be useful for cost-benefit analysis and for efficient planning in dental practice.