Frequency and localization of overhanging restorations

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the frequency and localization of the overhanging restorations by observing patients' routinely taken panoramic radiographs. Materials and Methods: The panoramic radiographs of 4,960 patients who applied to a dental clinic in University between 2015 and 2016 and had one or more previous restorations were retrospectively examined. The study group included 243 patients (133 females and 110 males) with a mean age of 39.7 ± 12.5 years. Superposed interdental areas were not evaluated. Frequency distributions and percentages were calculated for the categorical data as to the surface of the maxillary-mandibular premolar and molar teeth, also the presence or absence of root canal treatment. Chi-square tests were used to compare data relating to the localization and frequency of overhanging restorations. Results: In the radiological evaluation of 243 patients, a total of 280 overhanging restorations were detected. Root canal treatment was present in 45.4% of the teeth with an overhanging restoration. The frequency of overhanging restorations in the maxilla was significantly higher (60.4%) than that of the mandible (39.6%), (p<0.05). The frequency of overhanging restorations in molar teeth (82.9%) was significantly higher than that of premolar teeth (p<0.05). Of all the overhanging restorations, 90.4% were in Class II cavities and 9.6% were in mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) cavities. More than half (57.3%) of the overhanging margins in the Class II restorations were distal; 42.7% were mesial surfaces (p<0.05). The most frequent restorations with overhanging were found in the maxillary molars (49.6%) and the least frequent were in the premolar teeth of the mandible (6.4%). Conclusions: The restorations with overhanging margins determined most often at the disto-occlusal margins of the maxillary molars. The frequency of overhanging restorations was higher in areas that are difficult to reach during treatment.