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Published on: December 20, 2024
Five-year clinical prospective evaluation of zirconia-based Denzir 3-unit FPDs
Margareta K Molin1, Stig L Karlsson
1Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden. margareta.molin@odont.umu.se
Purpose:
The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical performance of fully sintered hot isostatic pressed yttria-partially-stabilized zirconia (Denzir) 3-unit fixed partial dentures (FPDs).
Materials And Methods:
Nineteen 3-unit FPDs were placed in 18 patients. Ten FPDs were placed in the maxilla and 9 in the mandible. Two calibrated examiners evaluated the FPDs independently 1 week (baseline), 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years after placement using the California Dental Association quality evaluation system.
Results:
All FPDs were intact at the 5-year examination. One FPD lost retention after 12 months but remained intact; it was recemented and is still in function after 5 years. All FPDs were rated satisfactory over 5 years. No changes were seen in terms of color and anatomic form. The number of slightly rough or pitted occlusal surfaces increased approximately 30% over 5 years. Visible evidence of ditching along the margin increased over time, but only for those FPDs luted with zinc phosphate cement.
Conclusion:
The 5-year results indicate that yttria-partially-stabilized zirconia 3-unit FPDs with anatomically designed frameworks are promising prosthetic alternatives, even in the premolar and molar regions. However, for all-ceramic FPDs with more units in function, further studies are necessary.