Minimally Invasive Fixed Prosthodontics: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Fixed Prosthodontics
• Minimally Invasive Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Generalized and combined diseases present challenges in prosthodontics.
• Review of long-term clinical survival of ceramic and resin composite materials.
• Exploration of tooth vitality loss post-prosthodontic treatment and options for severe wear.

Purpose of the Study:

• Analyze evidence on minimally invasive treatment protocols in fixed prosthodontics.
• Raise awareness on the importance of treatment longevity and secondary prevention.
• Critically review clinical performance of minimally invasive vs. traditional concepts and materials.

Main Methods:

• Narrative literature review.
• Analysis of available evidence on treatment protocols and materials.
• Critical review of clinical performance data.

Main Results:

• Ceramic restorations show superior survival rates over resin composites.
• Ceramic partial coverage inlay and onlay restorations exhibit excellent long-term clinical performance in posterior dentition.
• Glass-ceramic lithium disilicate is suitable for both anterior and posterior dentition, including cases of severe wear.

Conclusions:

• Minimally invasive dentistry in fixed prosthodontics needs conceptual updates for secondary prevention and longevity.
• Awareness is raised for secondary prevention and longevity in treatment choices.