A narrative review on the performance of all-ceramic resin bonded bridges.

Abstract

Resin bonded bridge is a minimally invasive restorative option in the replacement of a single missing anterior or posterior tooth. Its popularity in the anterior region is supported by many advantages such as minimal preparation requires the support of single or double abutment, reversible treatment, low cost, and is suitable to all group ages including the young and elderly. Earlier designs of resin bonded bridges were made in metal ceramic and were connected with 2 retainers. These metal retainers were initially perforated to allow for better bonding. Over time, the design and material of the resin bonded bridge has evolved, driven by the need for white aesthetics, and improvements in bonding and material development. Today all ceramic one retainer cantilever winged resin bonded bridges has gained popularity in replacing missing anterior teeth with good survival and success rates. Survival for anterior all ceramic resin bonded over a 10 and 15-year period is reported at 95.4% which is comparable to other treatment modalities such as implants and conventional bridges. Success for all ceramic one retainer cantilever is 100%. All ceramic restorations, although aesthetic, are limited to a certain height and dimensional values that affect the strength of the prosthesis. This narrative aims to critically examine the existing literature in finite elemental analysis and in-vitro studies in the study of all ceramic resin bonded bridges. Critical analysis of its methodology is important to provide a good framework on which to build clinical studies upon.