Systems and Techniques for Removal of Failed Fixed Partial Dentures: A Review

Abstract

FPDs have a long life span but sometimes they should be removed for several reasons at which they are; secondary caries, the need for root canal treatment, severe gingival recession or periodontal disease, loosened retainer of a bridge, post loosening, root fracture, over contoured and unaesthetic restorations. The removal of temporary crowns and bridges are usually straightforward, while the removing of permanent cemented restorations are always an unpleasant, anxiety-ridden, risky subject for both dentist and patient. So the objective of the bridge removal is the ability to reuse them and to avoid damaging of the underlying tooth and supporting structures. The FPDs removal instruments are: large spoon excavator, scalar tip, brass ligature wires, matrix band, chisel and hammer. In addition to that, there are also coronal disassembly crown remover forceps, precision-made air-activated units; modified techniques have also been highlighted in this article for ease of use for the clinician. The aim of this review is to give an overview and describe the various available systems and techniques to remove the FPDs and to provide different options for each clinical condition. A PubMed literature was conducted up to June 2015 using the keywords: Crown and bridge (removal, disassembly, failure). Additionally, the bibliographies of 5 previous reviews, their cross references were manually searched.