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Durability of tunnel restorations in general practice: a three-year multicenter study
C E Pilebro1, J W van Dijken, R Stenberg
1Department of Pedodontics, Institute of Oral Biology, Umeå, Sweden. carin.pilebro@oralbio.umu.se
Acta Odontologica Scandinavica
|April 20, 1999
Summary
This study on tunnel restorations found a 20% replacement rate after three years, primarily due to fractures and recurrent dentin caries. Progressive caries increased, highlighting the need for monitoring these dental restorations.
Area of Science:
- Restorative Dentistry
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- The tunnel technique is a minimally invasive approach for restoring posterior teeth.
- Glass cermet cements offer potential benefits but require long-term evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical performance and survival rate of tunnel restorations using glass cermet cement (Ketac Silver).
- To identify reasons for restoration failure and progression of caries over a three-year period.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-seven dentists placed 374 tunnel restorations in permanent teeth.
- Clinical and radiographic assessments were performed at baseline and up to three years post-placement.
- Restorations were evaluated for technical defects, marginal ridge fracture, and dentin caries progression.
Main Results:
- After three years, 305 restorations were assessed, with a cumulative replacement rate of 20%.
- Marginal ridge fracture (14%) and dentin caries (3%) were the primary reasons for replacement.
- Untreated progressive dentin caries was observed in 11% of restorations, with enamel lesions also showing progression.
Conclusions:
- Tunnel restorations with glass cermet cement demonstrated a significant replacement rate within three years.
- Fracture and recurrent caries are key challenges, necessitating careful patient selection and monitoring for long-term success.