Five-year evaluation of posterior all-ceramic three-unit (In-Ceram) FPDs

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the properties of the In-Ceram material are adequate for use in posterior three-unit fixed partial dentures (FPD) and to evaluate the clinical method regarding preparation technique, design, and choice of cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen patients were treated with a total of 20 posterior three-unit FPDs according to the In-Ceram technique. The FPDs were constructed with bilateral support and one pontic and were all replacing one premolar or a molar (11 replacing premolars and 9 replacing molars). They were evaluated 6 months after delivery and then once yearly. RESULTS: Eighteen of the 20 FPDs (90%) showed no defects at any of the follow-up examinations and were functioning well after 5 years. No caries or signs of gingivitis or periodontitis exceeding those found in the rest of the dentition were registered. CONCLUSION: The In-Ceram technique is, in a 5-year perspective and adopted for three-unit FPDs, an acceptable treatment alternative. Further studies must, however, be performed before the material can be recommended for more extensive restorations than the FPDs included in this study.