Analysis of technical complications and risk factors for failure of combined tooth-implant-supported fixed dental prostheses.

BACKGROUND

The oral rehabilitation with fixed restorations supported by the combination of teeth and dental implants has been advocated in some cases.

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical outcomes of these prostheses. Fixed restorations supported by the combination of teeth and dental implants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included all patients treated with combined tooth-implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) at one specialist clinic. Abutment/prosthesis failure and technical complications were the outcomes analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients with 96 prostheses were included, with a mean follow-up of 10.5 years. Twenty prostheses failed. The estimated cumulative survival rate was 90.7%, 84.8%, 69.9%, and 66.2% at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, respectively. The failure of tooth and/or implant abutments in key positions affected the survival of the prostheses. There were seven reasons for prostheses failure, with the loss of abutments exerting a significant influence. Bruxism was possibly associated with failures. Prostheses with cantilevers did not show a statistically significant higher failure rate. No group had a general higher prevalence of technical complications in comparison to the other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Although combined tooth-implant-supported FDPs are an alternative treatment option, this study has found that across 20 years of service nearly 35% the prostheses may fail.