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Consequences of posterior cusp fracture
James D Bader1, Daniel A Shugars, John R Sturdevant
1Department of Operative Dentistry, University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, USA.
General Dentistry
|April 23, 2004
Summary
Posterior cusp fractures are common, but severe outcomes are rare. Most fractured teeth receive simple, single-visit restorations, aiding informed preventive care decisions.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Dental Traumatology
- Restorative Dentistry
Background:
- Posterior cusp fractures are frequent dental injuries.
- The clinical consequences and treatment patterns are not well-understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate short-term outcomes of posterior cusp fractures.
- To analyze fracture distribution, severity, and treatment received.
- To inform preventive restorative strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 517 fractured teeth from 498 subjects.
- Recorded fracture location, severity, and treatment up to two years post-fracture.
- Data collected from a large group dental practice.
Main Results:
- Maxillary and mandibular fractures occurred with similar frequency.
- Mandibular first molars were most frequently and severely fractured.
- Non-holding cusps were more prone to fracture.
- Low rates of extraction (3%) and endodontic treatment (4%) were observed.
- Most teeth were treated in a single visit with direct restorative materials.
Conclusions:
- Serious consequences from posterior cusp fractures are relatively uncommon.
- Understanding tooth-specific fracture patterns can guide preventive interventions.
- Dentists and patients can make informed decisions about restorative care prior to fracture.