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Case report: a non-rigid connector for a resin bonded bridge
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, University Dental School and Hospital Cork, Wilton, Cork, Ireland.
Summary
A novel resin-bonded bridge design using a non-rigid connector successfully restored two missing teeth and a pier abutment for seven years, avoiding common rigid bridge complications.
Area of Science:
- Dental prosthetics
- Fixed prosthodontics
- Biomaterials in dentistry
Background:
- Conventional rigid bridges are commonly used for tooth restoration.
- Rigid bridges are not ideal for cases involving intermediate pier abutments.
- This can lead to mechanical stress and potential failure.
Observation:
- A case involving the restoration of two missing teeth and an intermediate pier abutment was presented.
- A resin-bonded bridge (RBB) was designed with a unique feature.
- A non-rigid connector was incorporated within the pontic, positioned distal to the pier abutment.
Findings:
- The resin-bonded bridge with the non-rigid connector demonstrated long-term stability.
- The restoration remained successfully in place without any signs of debonding for a period of seven years.
- This indicates the efficacy of the non-rigid connector in managing stress.
Implications:
- Non-rigid connectors offer a viable alternative to rigid connectors in specific prosthodontic situations.
- This design can improve the longevity and success rate of bridges with pier abutments.
- Further research into RBB designs with non-rigid connectors is warranted for complex cases.