Direct Applications of Fiber. Composites Substitution of Missing Frontal Teeth

Overview

Introduction:
The use of resin pre-impregnated fiber reinforced composite (dentapreg) materials in dentistry has been growing rapidly over the last 10 years in applications such as splinting, orthodontic retention as well as single tooth fixed partial dentures (FPD) and reinforcement of temporary as well as definitive bridges.

Aim:
The aim of this contribution was to evaluate whether adhesive bridges prepared using dentapreg frameworks can provide a functional, temporary prosthetic solution.

Material and methods:
The frameworks were formed using commercial grade pre-impregnated FRC strip (DentapregTM Bridge) adhesively bonded to the two abutments using acid etching technique. The pontic was sculptured using Opticor flow and Opticor C&B composite (SpofaDental, Czech Republic). Each month, recalls were made and the bridges were evaluated with respect to their retention, oral hygiene and aesthetics.

Results:
Total of 22 bridges replacing a single upper incisor were prepared. One bridge became loose one month after placement. Slight discoloration of the build-up composite was observed in three bridges. In four cases, minor defects in the cover composite layer near the attachment site were detected. A small amount of dental plaque was found in eleven bridges. Other findings were satisfactory and no failure of any of the FRC frameworks was observed.

Conclusions:
Adhesive bridges using the FRC frameworks can advantageously be used as temporary fixed prostheses.

Key words:
dentapreg - fibre reinforced composite - adhesive bridge - temporary fixed prosthesis