Clinical Longevity of Obturators in Patients with Jaw Defects: a Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Objectives: The primary objective of the present retrospective clinical study was to determine the survival time of obturators while analyzing possible influencing factors. Materials and methods: This retrospective clinical cohort study analyzed the influence of various clinical factors on the survival probability of obturators and their follow-up outcomes using Kaplan‒Meier analysis. Results: A total of 76 patients with 115 obturators were included in the study (47 men and 29 women, mean age 58.1 ± 18.1 years). The mean observation time was 3.0 ± 4.5 years (maximum 26.3 years). A total of 40.9% (47) of all obturators observed had to be replaced. The survival rate after 5 years was 79.5% for telescopic-crown-retained tooth-supported obturators, 86.9% for telescopic-crown-retained implant-supported obturators, 58.8% for removable full denture obturators, 22.1% for clasp-retained obturators and 0.0% for splints. The type of attachment, attendance at a regular follow-up and defect cause significantly influenced the survival of the obturators (p < .05). Conclusions: The findings obtained in this study support the recommendation of using implant-supported obturators. Telescopic-crown attachments, either tooth- or implant-supported, seem to be favorable in terms of survival time. Attendance at a strict follow-up program seems to have a major influence on the longevity of the obturators. Clinical relevance: The use of implant-supported obturators to cover permanent oral and maxillofacial defects is highly recommended. Additionally, the use of telescopic-crown attachments seems to be favorable in terms of survival time. Clasp-retained obturators and surgical splints should be used primarily for temporary restorations due to their shorter survival times.