Objectives: This study was conducted to estimate the incidence of cusp fractures of post canine teeth in a Dutch population. Methods: During a 3-month period data were obtained from 28 general practitioners, representing 46,349 patients. For each case of cusp fracture, the dentists recorded information related to location of the fracture, cause of fracture and restorative status of the tooth prior to the cusp fracture. Results: 238 cases of cusp fracture were recorded. Molars were more frequently registered with cusp fractures than premolars (79% vs. 21%). This difference was even more pronounced in the mandible (chi-square test, P<0.05). For molars more fractures were noted on nonfunctional cusps than on functional cusps while for premolars no difference was found between fractures occurring on functional and nonfunctional cusps. Almost 77% of the cases were previously restored on three or more surfaces. Statistical analysis revealed a positive correlation between history of endodontic treatment and subgingival fracture location. Mastication was most frequently reported as the cause for fracture (54%) although one can argue whether the occlusal force was the cause or the immediate reason. Conclusions: An incidence of 2.1% cusp fractures per year was found. This study revealed that cusp fracture is a common phenomenon in dental practice and has highlighted that incidence of cusp fracture depends of tooth type and restorative status of the tooth prior to fracture. Teeth with a history of endodontic treatment are more susceptible to unfavorable subgingival fracture location.

Back to the Prosthodontics Research Program
Back to the IADR/AADR/CADR 80th General Session (March 6-9, 2002)

Top Level Search