Stability of all-porcelain, resin-bonded fixed restorations with different designs: an in vitro study

The strength of resin-bonded, all-ceramic fixed partial dentures with different framework and prosthesis designs was evaluated. Metal dies were fabricated from a cast of a patient missing the left central incisor and the adjacent teeth were prepared to receive an all-ceramic, resin-bonded prosthesis. Framework designs were standardized and at least 10 samples were made for testing each design. Labial veneering of the pontic with Vitadur-N significantly decreased the stability compared with that of the unveneered In-Ceram framework. Circumferential veneering of the pontic and additional proximal box preparation yielded the strongest units.