Needs for re-intervention on restored teeth in adults: a practice-based study

Objectives Evaluate the need for re-intervention on dental coronal restorations in adults seen in a network of general dental practitioners (ReCOL). Materials and methods This observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study involved 40 practitioners and 400 patients. Coronal restoration failures (needing re-intervention for unsatisfactory outcomes) were assessed with a simplified rating scale of seven criteria from the FDI World Dental Federation. The oral health status, the risk factors, and Oral Health Impact Profile-14 were also examined. Previous restoration characteristics (extent, technique, material) were analyzed according to the need for re-intervention (yes/no), the age group, and the risk profile. Qualitative variables were compared between re-intervention and no re-intervention group using Fisher exact test. Results The need for re-intervention was estimated at 74% (95% CI: 70; 79); it increased with age (49 to 90%), unfavorable risk profile (82 vs. 62%), and extent of the filling (32, 39, 44, and 44% on 1, 2, 3 surfaces, and crowns, respectively). More posterior than anterior teeth were restored (median per patient: 6 vs. 1) or needed re-intervention (median per patient: 1 vs. 0). Conclusions The needs for re-intervention in adults are still high within a context of ever-changing materials and techniques, simplified and rationalized decision-makings, and demands for patient involvement.

Automated summary

The need for re-intervention on dental coronal restorations in adults is high, increasing with age, risk profile, and extent of filling. Posterior teeth are more likely to be restored or need re-intervention compared to anterior teeth.