Fracture Resistance of Different Designs of a Resin-Bonded Fixed Dental Prosthesis: An In Vitro Study

Purpose To evaluate the effect of three two-retainer designs of a resin-bonded fixed dental prosthesis (RBFDP) on fracture resistance. Materials and methods A total of 21 three-unit, all-ceramic RBFPDs were fabricated to replace a missing maxillary lateral incisor. The prostheses were divided into three groups of 7 each: Group L (labial RBFPD); Group ML (modified labial RBFPD, fabricated the same as in Group L with additional preparation that included a shallow proximal groove at the pontic side); and Group P, an all-ceramic palatal RBFPD that acted as control. Preparations were done on the maxillary left central incisor and canine of a typodont model, and 21 epoxy resin models were duplicated for the three groups. The RBFPDs were designed using CAD software and constructed using the heat-pressed technique, after which the prostheses were bonded to their corresponding epoxy resin model according to the manufacturer's instructions. A fracture resistance test was performed on all specimens following aging. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results The highest fracture load values were recorded in Group P (547.5 N), followed by Group ML (462.6 N) and then Group L (418.3 N). The difference among the three designs was not statistically significant (F = 2.5, P = 0.1). Conclusion Both labial and modified labial RBFDPs could be a viable alternative treatment option for replacement of missing maxillary lateral incisors.