Contemporary materials and technologies for all-ceramic fixed partial dentures: a review of the literature

High-strength all-ceramic systems for fixed partial dentures (FPDs) are available for replacing a missing tooth. New core/framework materials have been developed and have evolved in the last decade. With the advancement of CAD/CAM technology, various fabrication techniques have been developed for fabricating improved, consistent, and predictable restorations in terms of strength, marginal fit, and esthetics and for managing core/framework materials that could not otherwise be managed. This article reviews the evolution and development of materials and technologies for all-ceramic FPDs through data published between 1966 and 2004 in the English language. Peer-reviewed articles were identified through a MEDLINE search and a hand search of relevant textbooks and annual publications. The available information suggests that clinical data on the success of these restorations are limited, and that the results of long-term clinical studies are critical to the assessment of these restorations to provide more specific guidelines for usage.