Survival rates of resin-bonded, glass fiber-reinforced composite fixed partial dentures with a mean follow-up of 42 months: A pilot study

Statement of problem. Although short-term clinical data exist for resin-bonded, glass fiber-reinforced composite fixed partial dentures (FPDs), long-term data are needed. Purpose. The survival rates of 29 resin-bonded, glass fiber-reinforced composite fixed partial dentures were evaluated in this clinical study for periods Of LIP to 42 months. Material and methods. FPDs were fabricated to replace I to 3 missing maxillary or mandibular teeth of 29 patients not able to be treated with conventional FPDs. Originally, there were 37 patients (the drop-out rate was 22%). The FPDs were retained with wings, inlays, complete coverage crowns, or combinations of these that were bonded to tooth structure. The FPD frameworks were made of continuous unidirectional E-glass fibers with a multiphase polymer matrix and light-polymerized particulate composite veneer. The patients were recalled for examinations, where a general dental examination was performed, I to 3 times per year for up to 63 months (minimum 24 months, mean 42 months). Partial or complete total debonding of the FPD or the framework fracture was considered a treatment failure. The data were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier survival test (alpha = .05). Results. Two resin frameworks fractured, and 3 frameworks were debonded. Kaplan-Meier survival probability at 63 months was 75%. Three of the failed FPDs were rebonded or repaired in situ, producing a functional survival rate of 93% after rebonding or repairing (mean survival time was 55 months). Conclusion. The results of this clinical study of 29 prostheses suggest that glass fiber-reinforced FPDs may be a possible alternative to cast metal resin-bonded FPDs. These restorations were successfully used as multiple-unit prostheses that employed a variety of abutment tooth preparation designs.