Closing the Gap: Knowledge and Practice of Finishing and Polishing Composite Restorations Among Senior Dental Students and General Dentists in Zahedan, Iran

Introduction: Finishing and polishing are key determinants of the surface quality, esthetics, and long‑term success of resin‑composite restorations. Inadequate technique can increase surface roughness, promote plaque retention and staining, and ultimately shorten the longevity of the restoration. This study evaluated knowledge (awareness) and self‑reported clinical practice related to composite finishing and polishing among final‑year dental students and general dentists in Zahedan, Iran. Methods: In this cross‑sectional survey, final‑year dental students and general dentists in Zahedan were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographics, awareness items, practice items, and reasons for not performing finishing/polishing. Content validity was assessed by expert review, and reliability by internal consistency. Analyses used descriptive statistics and appropriate group comparisons (e.g., Chi‑square tests and confidence intervals), with two‑sided P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Ninety‑five participants completed the questionnaire. Overall, awareness scores were generally moderate, and practice scores were lower than awareness scores. General dentists scored higher than students in both awareness and practice, and greater work experience was associated with better performance. Across groups, gaps were most evident in selecting polishing systems and following the recommended sequence of finishing procedures. Conclusion: Although practicing dentists reported better knowledge and practice than students, clinically relevant deficiencies were identified in both groups. Strengthening undergraduate skills training and offering continuing professional education— especially hands‑on workshops—may improve the quality and consistency of finishing and polishing for composite restorations.