Fiber-reinforced onlay composite resin restoration: a case report

The purpose of this case report is to describe the clinical procedure for fabricating fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) onlay composite resin restorations using a FRC as the substructure.

A variety of therapeutic modalities are available to restore teeth with moderate coronal defects in the posterior region of the mouth. For patients who refuse complete crown restorations or when minimal tooth reduction is preferred, a FRC restoration can be a good alternative to conventional restorative techniques.

A 42-year-old female patient presented with an endodontically treated mandibular right first molar with extensive destruction of the coronal tooth structure. To conserve the remaining tooth structure a FRC resin core substructure was fabricated and veneered with Ceramage dentin and enamel hybrid composite to create the final restoration.

FRC restorations using adhesive technology appears to be a promising restorative option. However, further clinical investigation will be required to provide additional information on this technique. Based on the clinical and radiographic findings in the present case, the fabrication of a conventional crown was avoided in order to conserve the remaining tooth structure.

The restoration of badly damaged teeth is a challenge for clinicians when cast crown restorations are not an option for the patient. The use of FRC restorations along with adhesive technology may be a rational restorative alternative in the near future.