Tooth-implant-supported posterior fixed dental prostheses with zirconia frameworks: 3-year clinical result

This case series compared the clinical survival of tooth-implant-supported (TI-S) and tooth-supported (T-S) three-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) with zirconia frameworks and described the incidence of biological and technical complications. Forty-four patients received 27 TI-S FDPs and 22 T-S FDPs. Twenty-seven titanium screw implants were inserted at the dislodged position of two missing posterior teeth. All implants were provided with customized zirconia abutments. Zirconia frameworks were fabricated by a CAD/CAM system and veneered in powder build-up technique. All restorations were cemented with glass ionomer. Baseline evaluation was performed 2 weeks after cementation with recall examinations performed at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months by calibrated investigators. Survival probabilities according to Kaplan-Meier were calculated. Gingival parameters and bone loss were assessed and statistically evaluated. The mean service time of the FDPs was 35 months (+/- 6). Two technical complications (fracture of veneering porcelain) were observed. One biological complication was recorded. The Kaplan-Meier survival probability was 93.9 % for all types of complications and 100 % related to restorations in service. The type of abutment support (TI-S vs. T-S) had no significant influence on the survival probability (p = 0.412, log rank test). No difference of the gingival parameters was detected between implants and natural teeth. Tooth-implant-supported zirconia-based FDPs showed similar clinical performance compared to tooth-supported zirconia-based FDPs. Within the limitations of this case series, tooth-implant-supported FDPs with zirconia frameworks seem to be a reliable treatment option.