Reasons for failure and replacement of class I and class II amalgam restorations in permanent teeth

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the reasons for failure of amalgam restorations in a teaching hospital.

Method: A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from patients presenting with failed amalgam restorations in the conservative clinic of a teaching hospital. The questionnaire was administered by trained dentists. A sample of 73 consecutive patients was evaluatedwithin a six month period. Information on patient’s age and gender,age of restoration was obtained. Intra oral examination was done to evaluate the type of restoration, reason for failure of restoration and treatment plan to restore the teeth.

Result: A total of 73 teeth with failed amalgam restoration comprising of 35 class I and 38 class II amalgam restoration was evaluated. The most common cause of failure was bulk fracture of amalgam(70%) followed by recurrent caries(16.4%). There was no statistically significant difference between frequency of failed class I and class II amalgam restoration (p<0.05). 72.6% of the failed restorations could be restored with amalgam without requiring additional procedure such as root canal treatment, crown and core build up.

Conclusion: The most common reason for failure of amalgam restoration is bulk fracture of amalgam which is a result of faulty cavity preparation.

Keywords: Tooth restoration, amalgam failure, replacement