A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Indirect Fiber-reinforced Composite Resin-bonded Bridges with New Clinical Techniques

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the longevity of the indirect fiber-reinforced composite resin-bonded-bridges (FRC RBBs) by new preparation design and digital impression, and compare it to the traditional preparation and impression. Materials and methods: The present study was a randomized controlled trial. Thirty patients were included in this study and were divided into two main groups (15 patients in each group, 1:1 allocation ratio). Group I received FRC RBBs with traditional minimal preparation and making impressions with additional silicone. While in group II FRC RBBs with a new preparation design were employed and intraoral scan impression was done for the patients. Both groups were designed and manufactured by computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Success and survival rates were evaluated for up to 2 years of the follow-up period. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and a logrank test were employed to analyze the data, with a 95% confidence interval. Results: Both groups were accompanied by a 100% survival rate after 2 years of follow-up. Nevertheless, the FRC RBBs (with traditional preparation) tended to show a better success rate of about 93.3% compared to 80% for the FRC RBBs (with new preparation technique), for 24 months. However, groups lacked statistical significance differences (p = 0.267). Conclusions: The study showed that indirect FRC RBBs in both groups performed well, with high success and survival rates for 2 years. Thus, it could offer a longer-term treatment solution taking into consideration the limitation of a short follow-up time and a small sample size.