Posterior two-unit cantilevered zirconia resin-bonded fixed partial dentures: A 3-year prospective single-arm clinical trial

Objectives: To evaluate the longevity of cantilevered zirconia-based resin-bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPDs) in replacing missing posterior teeth, as well as the quality of life and patient satisfaction experienced by those receiving zirconia RBFPDs. Methods: A prospective single-arm uncontrolled clinical trial was conducted to replace one or more missing premolars or molars with a span of 5 to 8 mm using cantilevered zirconia RBFPDs. Thirty-six participants with 40 prostheses were recruited and underwent a 3-year clinical evaluation. The retainer designs included a minimum thickness of 0.8 mm, a minimum of 200 degrees circumferential wraparound with an occlusal bar, and a connector dimension of 3 x 3 mm. Patient-reported outcomes, including patient satisfaction and Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP), were assessed. Results: The average age of participants was 45.8 years, and 72.5 % were women. The success rate of the posterior zirconia RBFPDs was 76.2 %, with an estimated mean success duration of 46.1 months. The survival rate was 88.1 %, with an estimated mean survival duration of 49.4 months. Participants were highly satisfied with the treatment, achieving an average satisfaction score of 80.8 +/- 11.9. Participants' total OHIP scores decreased from 52.3 to 39.6 after 3 years, indicating a significant improvement in oral health-related quality of life (P = 0.009). Conclusions: After 3 years, a moderately high survival rate and favourable patient-reported outcomes of posterior cantilevered zirconia RBFPDs were achieved. Therefore, it can be recommended as a conservative treatment option to replace missing posterior teeth, provided that retainer design considerations are taken into account. Clinical significance: Cantilevered zirconia RBFPDs for posterior teeth can serve as a conservative treatment option that is both aesthetically pleasing and biocompatible. It offers a more cost-effective alternative compared to dental implants, which are often prohibitively expensive for the majority of patients. This approach has the potential to greatly improve patient-reported outcomes.