LAUSR

ABSTRACT Background/Aim Studies on large cross‐arch bridges in patients with severe periodontitis show that such bridges can stabilize the periodontal condition. However, it is not known if these bridges will reduce long‐term tooth loss and what factors are important for their long‐term survival. The aim of the study was to study all patients with Stages III/IV periodontitis who received cross‐arch bridges for up 35 years in a private practice. Materials and Methods All patients referred for periodontal treatment from 1986 who received cross‐arch bridges with observation period of minimum 7 years were assessed. All dropouts were accounted for. Results Ninety‐eight patients (1.7% of the patient population) with 111 bridges were observed (57 females and 37 males). Age at bridge construction was 55.4 years (SD = 7.1, range 39–79). Failure rate was 14.4% at 16.1 years (SD = 4.0 range 10–22). Reasons for failure were poor oral hygiene (p = 0.0093) and complications such as caries, endontics, porcelain fractures and gingival retractions during maintenance therapy (p = 0.0059). Fewer abutment teeth were lost from the bridges than teeth from the same and opposing arches (8.8% vs. 34.4% and 25.4%) (p < 0.0001). Conclusion Cross‐arch bridges constructed for patients with Stages III and IV periodontitis were successful in terms of longevity, low failure rates, tooth preservation and patient satisfaction.