Matthias Kern
Christian-Albrechts University, Germany
Title: Resin-bonded bridges made from zirconia ceramic - A true alternative to single tooth implants
Biography
Biography: Matthias Kern
Abstract
Resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs, so-called Maryland bridges) with two metal retainer wings have been introduced over 30 years ago for a minimal invasive replacement of missing teeth. However unfortunately due to various reasons metal-ceramic RBFDPs are not considered a comparable treatment modality to implants by most of the dentists Cantilevered RBFDPs with a single ceramic retainer wing were introduced 20 years ago. They provide better esthetics and are less invasive than two-retainer RBFDPs. In the meantime long-term data of this minimal invasive treatment option are available. Similar concepts are now also implemented for the replacement of posterior teeth that show promising medium-term outcomes comparable to single tooth implants. This lecture summarizes when RBFDPs present a favorable, minimally invasive and less costly treatment alternative to single tooth implants.