COVID-19 Pandemic's Impact on Tooth Fractures Studied in New Research

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Danube Private University in Krems, Austria, conducted a retrospective study to assess the incidence of tooth fractures before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic in a German private general practice. The study analyzed patient records from 2018 to 2023 and found no significant differences in fracture incidence between the pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic periods. Interestingly, the study revealed that mandibular molars were the most frequently affected teeth, and composite restorations were most associated with fractures.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed patient records from 2018 to 2023 (n = 4709 patients, 10,018 visits) from a German private general practice in Bavaria, Germany.
  • The study found no significant differences in fracture incidence between pre-pandemic (2018-2019), pandemic (2020-2021), and post-pandemic (2022-2023) periods.
  • Mandibular molars were the most frequently affected teeth, accounting for 7.94%-12.43% of all fractures.
  • Composite restorations were most associated with fractures, accounting for 51.85% of all fractures.
  • The study suggests that referral bias or patient selection in specialized settings may influence reported trends.
  • The study also highlights the importance of continued research into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health.

Statistics:

  • 4709 patients were included in the study over a period of 5 years.
  • 10,018 visits were analyzed from 2018 to 2023.
  • 7.94%-12.43% of all fractures occurred in mandibular molars.
  • Composite restorations accounted for 51.85% of all fractures.

Sources:

  • "Incidence of Cracked Teeth Before, During, and After the Covid-19 Pandemic-A Retrospective Analysis in a German Private General Practice" published in Clinical and Experimental Dental Research, 2025;11(5).
  • NewsRx. Research from Danube Private University Yields New Findings on COVID-19 (Incidence of Cracked Teeth Before, During, and After the Covid-19 Pandemic-A Retrospective Analysis in a German Private General Practice). TB & Outbreaks Week. October 21, 2025; p 173.