First experiences with resin-bonded bridges and splints--a cross-sectional retrospective study, Part II

This second report establishes that the success of treatment with resin-bonded bridges was dependent upon many factors. Factors controlled by the clinician, such as case selection and treatment planning greatly influence the clinical success. It was possible to show that framework preparation and the amount of available enamel were significant factors, whereas isolation technique, type of retention mechanism and type of adhesive used were of less importance. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these observations. Seventeen clinicians placed 496 resin-bonded bridges and splints with different retention mechanisms and bonding agents. These reconstructions were examined in regard to the failure rate and in regard to reattachment problems. Ninety-seven per cent of the bridges and 90% of the splints were still in place after 1 year. For bridges and splints a 90% success rate was ascertained after 2 years.