Prospective Clinical Split-Mouth Study of Two-Wing–Retained Resin-Bonded Anterior Fixed Dental Prostheses with Metallic and Ceramic Frameworks: 5-year Results

Purpose: To analyze the clinical performance of two-wing–retained resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs) after 5 years of clinical use with respect to technical and biologic complications, as well as survival and success rates.

Materials and methods: RBFDPs were fabricated from 3Y-TZP zirconia layered by hand (Lava Frame veneered with Lava Ceram; 3M ESPE) or metal (Remanium Star, Dentaurum; layered with Reflex, Wieland). The primary endpoints were debonding and fracture. The secondary endpoints (marginal integrity, marginal discoloration, abrasion of antagonist dentition, patient satisfaction, Gingival Index, and side effects) were evaluated at baseline and after 5 years. Survival and success rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank test was used to compare the survival and success rates of the different materials.

Results: The mean observation time was 6 years and 10 months. The estimated cumulative success rate after 5 years was 88.9% ± 10% for metal-supported and 33% ± 16% for all-ceramic two-wing RBFDPs. After conversion into one-wing RBFDPs, the survival rate was 100% in both groups. Debonding of one of the two wings was the major complication. One zirconia framework fracture occurred. Metal-based two-wing RBFDPs showed a significantly higher success rate, but lower esthetic evaluation.

Conclusion: Due to a reduction in technical complication rate and less invasiveness, one-wing RBFDPs should be preferred over two-wing RBFDPs whenever possible.