Long-term prognosis of extensive polyunit cantilevered fixed partial dentures

The aim of this retrospective study was to elucidate the long-term prognoses of extensive fixed partial dentures including unilateral or bilateral polyunit cantilevers in patients with healthy but reduced periodontal support. Following periodontal therapy 36 cross-arch fixed partial dentures with two or more cantilever units unilaterally or bilaterally were fitted in 34 patients. In the prosthodontic design, special attention was given to the retention to long parallel preparations, to the dimensions of the framework, and to the occlusal design. After completion of therapy, the patients were enrolled in a regular maintenance care program and followed up for a period of 5 to 12 years. During this follow-up period one abutment tooth was fractured in one patient. One fixed partial denture with extremely reduced periodontal support was lost as a result of complete periodontal breakdown from occlusal trauma. For 33 fixed partial dentures, neither periodontal nor technical complications occurred.