Objectives: To evaluate clasp-retained removable partial dentures (C-RPDs) with a metal framework for survival, maintenance requirements, and biologic implications.
Method and materials: C-RPDs were retrospectively analyzed based on patient records. Treatment failure was defined as fracture of a framework component (metal base or connector) or loss of an abutment tooth. Other outcome variables included factors that might conceivably impact C-RPD survival (maxilla vs mandible, Kennedy classes, opposing dentitions, treatment by students vs certified dental practitioners), mobility and caries of abutment teeth (in relation to clasp designs), and maintenance requirements (relining, clasp or resin fractures). Differences were evaluated by appropriate statistical tests at the P ≤ .05 level.
Results: A total of 612 patients (339 men, 273 women) 60.0 ± 11.5 years old at delivery were included, covering 842 C-RPDs and a mean observation period of 42.1 ± 33.2 months. Kaplan–Meier C-RPD survival was 76.2% after 5 years and 49.5% after 10 years. Biologic complications (ie, loss of abutment teeth) accounted for the vast majority (95.6%) of C-RPD failures, and Kaplan–Meier C-RPD survival was significantly better in the mandible (P = .015). Some clasp designs contributed significantly to caries and removal of abutment teeth (both P .05). No other significant differences were noted.
Conclusion: Tooth loss both emerges as the main cause of C-RPD failure and might be amenable to careful selection of clasp designs. Overall, better C-RPD survival should be expected in the mandible. A noncontributory role of Kennedy classes and opposing dentitions is tentatively suggested based on numerically heterogenous subgroups.