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18-year longitudinal study of cantilevered fixed restorations
V Decock1, K De Nayer, J A De Boever
1Department of Fixed Prosthesis and Periodontology, University of Gent Dental School, Belgium.
The International Journal of Prosthodontics
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Cantilever fixed prostheses showed a 70% success rate over 18 years, with failures linked to endodontically treated abutments. Maxillary prostheses had a higher failure rate than mandibular ones.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Cantilever fixed partial dentures (FPDs) are used to replace missing teeth.
- Long-term clinical data on the survival rates of these prostheses are valuable for treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical and radiographic success rates of cantilever fixed partial dentures over an 18-year period.
- To identify factors influencing the failure of these restorations.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective clinical and radiographic evaluation of 137 cantilever FPDs placed between 1974 and 1990.
- Data collection included prosthesis location, duration, failure reasons, and abutment status.
Main Results:
- The overall success rate was 70% over a median duration of 84 months.
- Forty-one (30%) prostheses failed due to abutment fracture, loosening, caries, periodontal issues, or apical reactions.
- Failures were significantly higher when endodontically treated abutments were used.
Conclusions:
- Cantilever fixed prostheses demonstrate a moderate success rate over 18 years.
- The use of endodontically treated abutments is a significant risk factor for failure.
- Further research into improving the longevity of these restorations is warranted.