Abstract – Objective: To conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing two
different tooth replacement strategies for partially dentate older patients,
namely partial removable dental prostheses (RDP) and functionally orientated
treatment based on the shortened dental arch concept (SDA). Methods: Ninetytwo
partially dentate older patients completed a randomized controlled clinical
trial. Patients were randomly allocated to two treatment groups: the RDP group
and the SDA group. Treatment effect was measured using impact on oral
health–related quality of life (OHrQOL), and the costs involved in providing
and maintaining care were recorded for all patients. Patients were followed for
12 months after treatment intervention. All treatment was provided by a single
operator. Results: The total cost of achieving the minimally important clinical
difference (MID) in OHrQOL for an average patient in the RDP group was
€464.64. For the SDA group, the cost of achieving the MID for an average
patient was €252.00. The cost-effectiveness ratio was therefore 1:1.84 in favour
of SDA treatment. Conclusion: With an increasingly ageing population, many
patients will continue to benefit from removable prostheses to replace their
missing natural teeth. From a purely economic standpoint, the results from this
analysis suggest that the treatment of partially dentate older adults should be
focused on functionally orientated treatment because it is simply more cost-effective.