Evaluation of Zirconia-Based Bridges in UK General Practice; Two-Year Results

EVALUATION OF ZIRCONIA-BASED BRIDGES IN UK GENERAL PRACTICE; TWO-YEAR RESULTS

Objectives: The clinical evaluation of the performance of Lava* zirconium oxide all-ceramic bridges using LavaCeram* veneering porcelain and cemented with the self-adhesive resin cement RelyX Unicem* (* 3M ESPE, Seefeld, Germany) placed in 4 UK general dental practices (sites at Alness, Buxton, Coleraine & Liverpool) over a five-year period.

Methods: Tooth preparation, bridge construction (at one central laboratory) and cementation were carried out to manufacturer's instructions. Using modified Ryge criteria, the operator completed baseline assessments of marginal fit, colour match and gingival health. Annual reviews, by a calibrated examiner and the operator, also looked at secondary caries status, surface quality and post-operative sensitivity. 

Results: To date 42 bridges have been placed, and 22 bridges (mean age 24.1months) in 19 patients (13 Female and 6 Male) have been reviewed at two-years (39 bridges, of mean age 12.3 months, reviewed at one-year). No failures, secondary caries or staining were observed. A second veneering porcelain chip was detected (one reported at one-year), otherwise surface quality was optimal. No pain or sensitivity was reported. 95% of bridges were optimal for marginal adaptation & no change in colour match from baseline was detected. The gingival health was as tabulated.

1=healthy gingivae 2=mild inflammation 3= moderate inflammation 4 = severe inflammation	Baseline	One-year	Two-year
Facial	85% 1, 15% 2	95% 1, 5% 2	95% 1, 5% 3
Mesial	82% 1, 18% 2	100% 1	100% 1
Distal	85% 1, 15% 2	95% 1, 5% 2	95% 1, 5% 2

Conclusion: After two years of clinical service the all-ceramic zirconia-based bridges were continuing to give good clinical service and monitoring will continue to determine performance over the five-year period.

 This study was supported by 3M ESPE AG, Seefeld, Germany.