Resin-Bonded Fixed Partial Dentures-A Literature Review with Presentation of a Novel Approach

Purpose: Resin-bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPD) have been in our profession for over 20 years. The aim of this work was to provide some background about their development and the factors that influence their clinical longevity. Materials and Methods: A recent literature search conducted using MEDLINE along with analysis of bibliographies of published papers revealed a considerable number of publications on RBFPDs since their first introduction in the mid-1970s. Critical analysis of these publications revealed some important and interesting key facts. These were divided into sections about developments in the treatment of the fit surface of the casting, bonding systems, and prosthesis design. A separate section about factors that affect the longevity of RBFPDs is included, along with a detailed description of preparation designs of an anterior and a posterior RBFPD. Results: The typical design of RBFPDs is characterized by a high degree of conservation of tooth structure of abutments compared with designs of conventional fixed prostheses. While the early RBFPDs were associated with a high fequency of premature failure-mostly because of debonding-developments in preparation design and bonding techniques as well as better understanding of the appropriate type of metal alloy to be used and the best preparation method for enhanced bonding have led to significant improvements in their long-term survival. Conclusion: RBFPDs should be considered viable treatment options for those clinical situations that are best suited for their use. Preparation design, cement type, and casting alloy type as well as surface treatment are among the most important factors that influence longevity of RBFPDs.