Survival Outcomes of Teeth Retained by Endodontic Therapy Versus Prosthodontic Rehabilitation Following Segmental Mandibulectomy in Oral Cancer Patients

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer often requires segmental mandibulectomy, which involves removing part of the mandible. Following surgery, rehabilitation options, such as endodontic therapy or prosthodontic rehabilitation, play crucial roles in restoring functionality, aesthetics, and the patient's quality of life. This study compares the survival of retained teeth with endodontic therapy versus those rehabilitated with prosthodontic methods in oral cancer patients after segmental mandibulectomy.

Methods: A prospective clinical trial with 60 oral cancer patients undergoing segmental mandibulectomy was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A received endodontic therapy to preserve natural teeth, and Group B underwent prosthodontic rehabilitation (e.g., dental implants, crowns, or dentures). The survival rates and functional outcomes were measured over 24 months.

Results: In Group A, 83.3% of retained teeth survived with minimal complications, while in Group B, 90% of prosthodontic rehabilitations were successful. Group A reported lower complications, while Group B showed a higher chewing efficiency and a slightly higher incidence of complications, including one case of cancer recurrence.

Conclusions: Both endodontic therapy and prosthodontic rehabilitation are effective for oral cancer patients post-mandibulectomy, with prosthodontic rehabilitation offering superior chewing efficiency. Future studies with extended follow-up could provide further insights into optimizing treatment strategies.