298 - Training and Regional Factors Influencing Hall Technique Adoption in the United States

Abstract: Regional and Training Influences on Hall Technique Adoption in the United States
Morris LJ, Roberts SM
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA

Research supported by Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry IRB 9842

Purpose: This cross-sectional study evaluated how formal training influences pediatric dentists’ use of the Hall technique and perceived patient acceptance across U.S. regions. Secondary objectives included identifying regional variations, assessing practitioner confidence by training type, and determining perceived barriers and facilitators such as occlusal interferences, parental concerns, and chair-time.

Methods: An anonymous electronic survey was distributed to pediatric dentists via the AAPD listserv. The survey included multiple-choice, Likert-scale, and open-ended items assessing demographics, training background, Hall crown usage, perceived effectiveness, patient/parent acceptance, and clinical barriers. Descriptive statistics summarized survey data, and associations between training, usage frequency, and regional trends were evaluated using chi-square, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and logistic regression analyses.

Results: A total of 324 pediatric dentists completed the survey. Dentists who received training were significantly more likely to use the Hall technique (p = 0.025) and reported more positive patient responses (p = 0.009). Regional differences were observed, with dentists in the Northeast less likely to use the technique than those in the reference region (p = 0.049). Univariate analyses supported these findings, with training associated with both current use (p = 0.013) and patient response (p = 0.009), while region alone was not significantly associated with use (p = 0.264).

Conclusions: Training exposure is associated with higher adoption of the Hall technique and more favorable patient responses, while regional factors influence utilization patterns. These findings underscore the value of standardized training programs to increase practitioner confidence and promote more consistent implementation of Hall crowns across U.S. regions.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by IRB: #9842