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Is the shortened dental arch still a satisfactory option?
M Manola1, F Hussain2, B J Millar3
1General Dental Practitioner, Thurnscoe Dental Care, Wincobank Dental Practice.
British Dental Journal
|July 22, 2017
Summary
The shortened dental arch (SDA) concept, which involves not replacing missing posterior teeth, is still considered viable despite some opposition. Evidence of pathology caused by SDA is lacking, making it a suitable option for certain patients.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Health
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Dental practitioners often advocate for replacing missing posterior teeth to maintain masticatory function.
- The shortened dental arch (SDA) concept challenges this traditional view.
- The long-term suitability of the SDA concept after 35 years requires evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the evidence and opinions regarding the shortened dental arch (SDA) concept.
- To assess the current acceptability of the SDA as a dental treatment modality.
Main Methods:
- Searched Medline and PubMed databases for relevant literature.
- Assessed 1,895 abstracts and selected 44 articles based on inclusion/exclusion criteria.
- Included various study types: cohort, longitudinal, animal, cross-sectional, clinical, and case-control.
Main Results:
- A trend shows increasing opposition to the SDA concept over the past three decades.
- Evidence directly linking SDA to pathological conditions is currently lacking.
- Favorable attitudes towards SDA persist among clinicians, authorities, and patients, despite some dissatisfaction.
Conclusions:
- The SDA concept remains a viable treatment option, particularly for medically compromised patients or when restorations are unsuitable.
- While opposition is increasing, the lack of evidence for pathology supports its continued use.
- Further specific research is warranted to fully understand the long-term implications and optimal application of the SDA.
