Clinical and radiographic evaluation of patients receiving both tooth- and implant-supported prosthodontic treatment after 5 years of function

Purpose: The aim of this research was to assess survival and complication rates of tooth- and implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) and single crowns (SCs) after 5 years of function in a specific patient population group who underwent comprehensive prosthetic treatment. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included a convenience sample of 52 patients who met specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and were treated during two specific courses as part of the undergraduate curriculum. The patients' prosthodontic treatment comprised 296 tooth-supported and 37 implant-supported SCs together with 76 tooth-supported and 15 implant-supported FDPs. Pre- and posttreatment clinical examinations included screening for biologic and technical complications, probing pocket depth, bleeding on probing (BoP), and plaque control record (PCR) as well as intraoral radiographs. Information was obtained from the patients about dental hygiene and dental visits, treated complications, and patient satisfaction during the observation period. Descriptive statistics were employed. Results: Forty-five patients were followed for a mean observation period of 5.26 ± 0.47 years. The survival rates were 99.0% for tooth-supported SCs, 98.7% for tooth-supported FDPs, and 100% for implant-supported FDPs and SCs. Loss of vitality was observed in 2.9% of all abutment teeth deemed to be vital initially. Endodontic complications occurred in 5% and root fracture in 2.5% of nonvital abutment teeth. Caries was found in 0.4% of abutments. No framework or implant fractures were observed, but fracture of the veneering ceramic affected 3.8% of FDPs. The mean BoP was 21.5% ± 9.9%, and the mean PCR was 22.8% ± 16.5%. A high satisfaction rating was provided by 82.2% of patients. Conclusions: High survival and relatively few complication rates were observed for all prescribed FDPs over the observation period.