Effect of fixed dental prosthesis on the brain functions of partially edentulous patients – pilot study with power spectrum density analysis

PURPOSE: This study was done to analyse the influence of fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) on brain function by analysing power spectral density of partially edentulous patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included unilateral missing mandibular molar replacement patients. The patients were restored with three-unit metal ceramic FDP restorations. The cognitive function was analysed with a mental state questionnaire. Power spectral density (PSD) analysis of EEG alpha waves was made pre- treatment, post treatment and 3 months after FDP treatment to analyse the brain function. The data in various phases were obtained before and after chewing. The results were statistically analysed. RESULTS: The mean pre and post treatment PSD was 0.0175 (SD ±0.0132) and 0.0178 (SD ±0.0135). The mean post treatment PSD after three months was 0.024 (SD± 0.019). The results were analysed with repeated ANOVA and were statistically significant. (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: The study displayed improvement in brain function of partially edentulous patients with FDP rehabilitation.