[Resin bonding bridges--state of the art]

Adhesive fixed partial denture (FPD) technology has gradually become viable in recent years, suitable for use in general dental practice. The most important prerequisites for success are patient selection and meticulous production techniques. Indications and limits of this technique are evaluated on the basis of the current state of the art. Initial preprosthetic treatment and clinical procedures are described. Research that has been done so far appears to demonstrate that adhesive FPDs are compatible with healthy periodontal tissues, even though some over-contouring of the adhesive tabs on the abutment teeth seems to be unavoidable. First clinical long-term studies have shown, however, that the failure rate of adhesive FPDs is higher than with conventional crown and bridge techniques. Porcelain-fused-to-metal FPDs on pure titanium frames and full ceramic FPDs are new developments in adhesive FPD technology which are not yet fit for use in dental practice.