Treatment Outcomes of Cantilever Fixed Partial Dentures on Vital Abutment Teeth: A Retrospective Analysis

Purpose: This retrospective clinical study evaluated the long-term outcomes of cantilever fixed partial dentures (CFPDs) and the factors influencing their survival probability. Materials and Methods: The study is based on a convenience sample of 57 patients who received 71 CFPDs on a total of 176 vital abutment teeth. The mean survival time of the CFPDs was calculated using a Kaplan-Meier estimate. The following variables were analyzed as covariates of the survival function (logrank test, P .05): sex, denture location, number and distribution (Kennedy Class) of the abutment teeth, dentition in the opposing arch (removable dentures, fixed partial dentures, or natural dentition), position of the cantilever unit (mesial or distal), and participation in follow-up visits. Results: The mean observation period was 3.2 ± 2.8 years (maximum 10.7 years). During the observation period, 22.5% (n = 16) of the CFPDs ceased functioning. The calculated outcome probability was 93.0% after 5 years and 84.5% after 8 years. The number of abutment teeth was the only parameter that significantly (P .05) impacted this probability. Conclusion: The survival rate of CFPDs on vital abutment teeth is comparable to that of conventional fixed partial dentures. Thus, CFPDs on vital abutments are an acceptable alternative to removable dentures.