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Performance of tunnel restorations at 3-6 years
S Nicolaisen1, F R von der Fehr, N Lunder
1Buskerud Public Dental Health Service, Kongsberg, Norway.
Journal of Dentistry
|June 17, 2000
Summary
The tunnel restoration method shows a 65% success rate, with longevity significantly impacted by caries activity and operator skill. It may serve as a semi-permanent solution for specific patient groups.
Area of Science:
- Restorative Dentistry
- Dental Public Health
Background:
- The tunnel restoration technique is a minimally invasive approach for treating approximal caries.
- Evaluating its long-term success in a public dental service setting is crucial for clinical decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the clinical success and survival rates of tunnel restorations placed within the Norwegian public dental service.
- To identify factors influencing the longevity of these restorations.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study examined 182 tunnel restorations in 94 patients (born 1975-1977) at least 3 years post-placement.
- Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed by calibrated dentists.
- Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used, considering caries activity and operator as variables.
Main Results:
- Overall success rate was 65% within a median survival time of 55 months.
- Approximately 90% survived 3 years, but only 35% survived 5 years.
- Caries activity and operator experience significantly affected restoration longevity; tooth type and surface did not.
Conclusions:
- Tunnel restorations with glass-ionomer cement are not generally optimal for primary approximal lesions.
- This method can be a viable semi-permanent option for patients with low caries activity when performed by skilled operators.