Full-mouth zirconia-based implant-supported fixed dental prostheses : five year - results of a clinical pilot study

Introduction: Full-mouth reconstruction using dental implants and CAD-CAM prosthodontic procedure is a new option model in oral rehabilitation. One of the most consolidated promising material is yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals, usually called “zirconia”. It is chemically derived from zirconium sand, partially stabilized with yttrium, and then mechanically pressed into zirconia blocks that are used for CAD-CAM technology. In this paper we provide the 5-year results from a pilot study on full-mouth implant-supported zirconia-based fixed dental prostheses (FMIZBRs). Methodology: Five women aged 55-75 years had received FMIZBRs from the same private practice. At the 5-year follow up visit, restorations remained in situ and were still in use. Results: There were no failures and no biological complications during the follow-up period (100% survival rate). Eight FMIZBRs experienced some minor porcelain veneer fractures that were easily polished. None of the fractures impaired function or aesthetics. The patients were fully satisfied with the treatment. Conclusion: Results from this pilot study suggest that FMIZBRs can be a treatment option that is rapidly shaping the coming dental rehabilitation area on implants.