Technical and Biological Complications of Screw-Retained (CAD/CAM) Monolithic and Partial Veneer Zirconia for Fixed Dental Prostheses on Posterior Implants Using a Digital Workflow: A 3-Year Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study

Abstract

Objective. The introduction of CAD/CAM and the development of zirconia-based restorations have allowed clinicians to use less expensive materials and faster manufacturing procedures. The purpose of the study was to analyze the differences, in terms of mechanical and biological complication, in multiunit zirconia fixed dental prosthesis (FPDs) on posterior implants produced using a digital workflow. Method and Materials. This study was a retrospective investigation, and patients treated with screw-retained monolithic or partial veneer FPDs on dental implants were selected. Periapical radiographs were taken at baseline and at the 3-year follow-up. Complications were recorded and classified as technical and biological ones. Results. The study population included 25 patients. The occlusal and interproximal corrections were not clinically significant. In the study sample, the survival rate and success rate of the FPDs after 3 years were 100% and 96%, respectively. One implant failed immediately after placement. Conclusion. Monolithic zirconia FPDs and partial veneer FPDs showed a 100% survival rate, presenting an interesting alternative to metal ceramic restorations. The partial veneer FPDs had a higher technical complication rate than the monolithic FPDs; however, no statistically significant difference was found.