An Overview of Systematic Reviews Related to Aspects of the Shortened Dental Arch and Its Variants in Adults.

Abstract

Aim To conduct an overview of systematic reviews (SRs) related to aspects of the shortened dental arch (SDA) and its variants, and critically appraise the methodological quality of the included SRs using the AMSTAR checklist. Methods A comprehensive computerized search and hand-searching of reference lists were conducted for SRs related SDAs to identify publications from 2000-2016. All authors and a research assistant independently screened the results of the electronic searches using an eligibility form and extracted information using a specially designed pre-piloted data extraction form. An 11-question AMSTAR checklist was completed for each included SR. Disputes were resolved by discussion between all researchers and results collated and interpreted. Results For the period 2007-2016, the search yielded 9 SRs incorporating 228 related articles. The research questions for each SR differed but were related to SDAs, thus the included articles were similar across SRs. Characteristics such as aims/objectives, study outcomes and conclusions of the 9 included SRs were compared. The AMSTAR evaluation indicated that 5 out of 9 studies were of a high quality (used a rigorous methodology) and the remaining 4 were of medium quality. All 9 SRs provided designs and characteristics of included studies. None of the SRs assessed publication bias. Conclusion Seven out of the nine SRs drew positive conclusions regarding the SDA concept, finding it functionally sound although some suggested that more high quality primary studies are still needed. The AMSTAR calculation indicated that most included SRs had an acceptable methodological quality, emphasizing the reliability of their results.