Long-Term Prognosis of Teeth With Class II Furcation Involvement: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Dental Research
• Oral Health

Background:

• Class II furcation involvement (FI) presents a significant challenge in periodontal therapy.
• Long-term tooth survival following active periodontal treatment (APT) for Class II FI requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the survival rate of teeth with Class II FI at least 5 years post-APT.
• To identify prognostic factors influencing the long-term survival of these teeth.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patient charts from a university periodontal department.
• Inclusion criteria: Class II FI treated with APT completed ≥5 years prior.
• Data collected at baseline (T0), post-APT (T1), and during supportive periodontal care (SPC/T2).

Main Results:

• 83% of 543 teeth with Class II FI were retained over a mean of 108.6 months of SPC.
• Increased tooth loss was associated with irregular SPC, premolar location, root canal filling (RCF), and multiple Class II FI at T1.
• Statistical analysis included logistic and Cox proportional hazards mixed-model regressions.

Conclusions:

• Long-term retention of teeth with Class II FI is achievable with appropriate periodontal care.
• Prognostic factors such as irregular SPC, RCF, premolar teeth, and multiple FI at T1 negatively impact tooth survival.
• These findings aid in predicting outcomes and refining treatment strategies for Class II FI.