Resin-Retained Bridges: Fibre-Reinforced versus Metal

From Volume 35, Issue 8, October 2008 | Pages 521-526

Authors

FJ Trevor Burke

DDS, MSc, MDS, MGDS, FDS (RCS Edin), FDS RCS (Eng), FCG Dent, FADM,

Articles by FJ Trevor Burke

Abstract

Resin-retained bridges (RRBs) have become an accepted part of the restorative dentist's armamentarium. Despite disadvantages, such as more frequent rates of debonding than conventionally-luted bridges, RRBs hold advantages such as their minimally invasive preparation and reduced cost, along with good patient acceptance. RRBs have traditionally been formed of a metal framework with porcelain coverage: most recently, fibre-reinforced RRBs (FRRRBs) have become available, using fibres to reinforce a laboratory composite material. They may also be formed intra-orally. This paper discusses the current status of indirectly-placed FRRRBs, their principal advantages being their improved aesthetics because they are tooth-coloured, and a principal disadvantage being a lack of long-term clinical research.

Article