Fixed bonded prosthodontics: a 10-year follow-up report. Part I: Analytical overview

Developments in biomaterials in the field of adhesion have made possible a less invasive dentistry. Improvements in adhesive polymers along with the analysis of certain failures in resin-bonded prostheses have suggested the micropreparation of abutment teeth. A long-term study of resin-bonded prostheses and splints was undertaken. The success rate of this protocol is presented for a study period of 10 years (1984 to 1993). These results indicated that the resin-bonded prosthesis is a viable option in patients who are missing one or two teeth. Of 145 prostheses, 11 failed, resulting in an overall survival rate of 83% (Kaplan-Meier test). Furthermore, the study confirmed that, for splints, preparation is important to counter the major stresses related to tooth mobility in patients with periodontal disease.