Resin-bonded prostheses: The current state of development

In the 25 years since the first resin-bonded prosthesis was described, this adhesive technique for splinting mobile teeth has developed into a conservative method for replacing missing teeth. There was a high debond rate associated with the early resin-bonded prostheses, which led many clinicians to question their clinical appropriateness for long-term use. These early failures were attributed to the limited bond strength between the metalwork and etched enamel. Despite improvements in the adhesive bond strengths, there was still an unacceptable number of clinical debonds. The biomechanical design of resin-bonded prostheses did not develop with the same rapidity or with the same predictability as did the advancements with the associated adhesive technology. Through ongoing development, studies have shown various biomechanical designs that may improve clinical retention. The purpose of this article is to examine the biomechanical principles for current resin-bonded prosthesis design, including aspects of tooth preparation and framework design that will improve clinical retention.