A clinical investigation on three-unit fixed partial dentures fabricated with a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic.

Abstract

A lithium disilicate glass-ceramic material has recently been developed for the fabrication of 3-unit fixed partial dentures. Conducted on 60 restorations, this initial trial attempted to define clinical indications and establish design principles for fixed partial dentures fabricated of this ceramic material. The design requisites varied depending on placement on the arch, and the authors concluded that lithium disilicate restorations caused reduced antagonist structure or opposing tooth wear. This investigation demonstrated that when a novel ceramic system was utilized for 3-unit restorations replacing up to the first premolar and attained minimal criteria for connector dimensions, an acceptable clinical success rate was achieved.