LONG-TERM STABILITY OF DENTAL PROSTHESES AND THEIR IMPACT ON MASTICATORY FUNCTION

Abstract

The growing global emphasis on improving oral health, combined with an aging population and increasing life expectancy, has significantly elevated the importance of long-term prosthodontic solutions. As edentulism and partial tooth loss remain prevalent conditions worldwide, dental prostheses play a crucial role in restoring oral function, aesthetics, and psychosocial well-being. However, while short-term outcomes of prosthodontic treatment are widely reported and often satisfactory, the long-term stability and functional performance of prostheses remain a critical area of concern. Modern advancements in dental materials, digital design technologies (such as CAD/CAM systems), and implantology have transformed the landscape of prosthodontics, offering more durable and biocompatible options for oral rehabilitation. Yet, despite these innovations, clinical practice still faces challenges related to prosthesis wear, biomechanical failure, patient compliance, and maintenance requirements over time.

Masticatory function, which encompasses the efficiency, strength, and coordination of chewing, is a key indicator of prosthetic success and patient satisfaction. Compromised masticatory performance due to unstable or deteriorating prostheses can negatively impact nutritional intake, digestive health, speech articulation, and overall quality of life—particularly in elderly and medically compromised individuals. Furthermore, with increased awareness and expectations among patients regarding oral aesthetics and functionality, the demand for long-lasting and high-performance prosthetic solutions is higher than ever. In this context, a comprehensive understanding of how long-term prosthesis stability influences masticatory efficiency becomes essential for guiding clinical decision-making and tailoring individualized treatment plans. Therefore, this study is relevant not only in addressing a critical gap in the long-term assessment of prosthodontic outcomes but also in contributing valuable evidence that supports the optimization of treatment protocols, selection of materials, and evaluation of patient-centered outcomes in restorative dentistry.