Predictors of survival of large non‐occlusal non‐incisal glass‐ionomer restorations in older adults.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the predictors of survival of non‐occlusal non‐incisal glass‐ionomer restorations as a surrogate for root surface restorations among older adults. Methods: In a retrospective cohort analysis using the University of Iowa College of Dentistry electronic dental records, we included 721 patients aged 65+ who received 2+ surface non‐occlusal non‐incisal glass ionomer restorations placed from January 2005 – December 2011. Restorations were followed until September 2017 or until they were deemed to have failed. Results: At baseline, participants' mean age was 77.6 ± 8.2 years, and 45.8% were females. Most patients were self‐pay (65.2%). Most restorations were placed by residents and dental students (82.7%) and included only two surfaces (95.6%). About half (49.1%) failed during follow‐up, with a median survival time of 3.7 years. The time ratio for lower incisors compared to other teeth was 0.6 (p =.006), for three‐and‐four‐surface restorations compared to two was 0.7 (p =.007), for faculty as providers compared to residents and students was 1.4 (p =.039), and for the Geriatric & Special Needs Clinic compared to others was 0.8 (p =.013). Time ratios less than one indicate association with shorter durations for restorations, and time ratios greater than one indicate association with longer durations for restorations. Conclusion: Tooth type, number of restored surfaces, provider type, and clinic were all significant factors associated with survival of these restorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]