Resin-retained bridges: fibre-reinforced versus metal

Resin-retained bridges (RRBs) have become an accepted part of the restorative dentist's armamentarium. Despite disadvantages, such as more frequent rates of debonding than conventionally-luted bridges, RRBs hold advantages such as their minimally invasive preparation and reduced cost, along with good patient acceptance. RRBs have traditionally been formed of a metal framework with porcelain coverage: most recently, fibre-reinforced RRBs (FRRRBs) have become available, using fibres to reinforce a laboratory composite material. They may also be formed intra-orally. This paper discusses the current status of indirectly-placed FRRRBs, their principal advantages being their improved aesthetics because they are tooth-coloured, and a principal disadvantage being a lack of long-term clinical research.

In cases where the visibility of metal may compromise the appearance of a metal-based RRB, a fibre-reinforced, resin-retained bridge may provide a clinical solution.