Successful Long-Term Removable Partial Treatment

A study of clasp-retained removable partial dentures covering a period of 25 years showed a survival rate of about 90% (89.8) after 10 years.  Published in the March/April 2012 issue of the International Journal of Prosthodontics, investigators in the Regensburg, Germany, University Medical Center, explored the survival rate of 174 partials made in the Department of Prosthodontics between 1984 and 2009.  They analyzed the frequency of and time to fracture of clasps, connectors or bases, the occurrence of decay or gum infections, loss of critical teeth and the need for maintenance procedures such as relines or adjustments.  The survival rates for all partials was 96.4% after five years and 89.8% after ten years.  Clasp fractures were the most common problem, occurring in one in five partials in five years and one in four partials in ten years.  New decay rates and periodontal problems were mostly manageable at normal recall visits during the ten year period.  According to these statistics, a removable partial denture can be considered a durable and long lasting prosthesis.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309