[Failure-time and risk analysis of fixed partial dentures]

Statistical methods of survival-analysis were applied to investigate the effects of anatomical, constructional and individual factors, which determine the "life-time" of 4371 single crowns, 1669 bridges and 175 fixed splints of a total of 1841 patients of a private insurance company. After 15 years of service 64% of the bridges, 56% of the single crowns and 45% of the splints were still under risk. The number of abutments and units, location, date of insertion, jaw and extension/normal bridge were significant risk factors.