A Descriptive Cross Sectional Study on Occurrence of Caries in Natural Tooth Surfaces Adjacent to Fixed Dental Prosthesis

Abstract

Background: Caries contiguous to FDPs is a major biological complication that can compromise the longevity of restorations. Limited evidence is available from the Lahore population, where variations in clinical technique, laboratory quality, and patient hygiene may influence outcomes.

Objective: To assess the frequency of caries in natural tooth surfaces adjacent to fixed dental prostheses.

Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Department of Prosthodontics, Fatima Memorial Hospital, Lahore. A total of 246 patients aged 18–65 years with porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns or bridges in place for at least six months were included. Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed to assess caries and contact status (acceptable, open, tight). Data were analyzed in R software (version 4.3.3) using descriptive statistics and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: The mean age was 37.7 years (SD = 13.5), with 56.5% males. Bridges (56.5%) were slightly more frequent than crowns (43.5%). Caries were observed on the mesial side in 32.1% and on the distal side in 28.9% of adjacent teeth. No significant association was found with age, gender, or prosthesis type. However, caries were significantly higher in open contacts compared with acceptable or tight contacts (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Caries adjacent to FDPs were common, with one-third of patients affected. Open contacts were the strongest risk factor, underscoring the importance of precise clinical and laboratory procedures to ensure proper contact formation and minimize biological complications.

Keywords: Fixed dental prosthesis, Adjacent caries, Contact points, Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, Prosthodontic complications