Direct Fiber-Reinforced Interim Fixed Partial Dentures: Six-Year Survival Study

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Glass fiber composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties and resin adhesion.
• Direct glass fiber-reinforced composite fixed partial dentures (FRC-FPDs) offer a minimally invasive restorative option.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term survival rates of anterior and posterior direct FRC-FPDs.
• To compare the clinical performance of different retainer designs in FRC-FPDs.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three patients received 23 direct FRC-FPDs with unidirectional glass fiber frameworks.
• Two retainer types were assessed: inlay composite resin retainers (n=19) and hybrid designs with composite resin wings (n=4).
• Survival rates were determined over a mean follow-up period of 4.91 years with annual check-ups.

Main Results:

• The six-year survival rate for inlay retainer FRC-FPDs was 94.7%, significantly higher than the 25% for hybrid designs (p=0.001).
• Inlay retainers proved functional, with only one instance of a fracture line in the glass fiber connector.
• Kaplan-Meier survival curves illustrated the significant difference between retainer types.

Conclusions:

• Direct FRC-FPDs are resistant, minimally invasive, and esthetic for long-term use.
• Inlay composite retainers represent a superior solution for FRC-FPDs compared to hybrid designs.