Prototype importance for implant supported zirconia bridges: a case report

Abstract

Biocompatible esthetic restorations are necessary in order to obtain successful results with implant therapy. Monolithic zirconia is a more recently offered option to PFM and zirconia-ceramic prosthesis. The optical properties of zirconia have been greatly enhanced, approaching those of ceramics, while the monolithic nature of the prosthesis reduces the chance of fracture or chipping and improves its structural properties. The major drawback of theses zirconia is mechanical and thermal problems that encountered when zirconia is exposed to hydrothermal aging due to the transformation of the metastable tetragonal zirconia into the monoclinic form. This case report describes 45 aged adult female patient with anterior maxillary mobile teeth, after clinical and radiographical examination, extraction and socket preservation were done at periodontal department, 6 months later implant installed and after 3 months of healing, the patient referred to prosthodontic department. Screw retained temporary prosthesis were fabricated, composite build up were done intraorally for the temporary prosthesis to achieve the esthetic and functional occlusion. Cement retained implant supported fixed prosthesis using monolithic zirconia were cemented and no occlusal adjustment is needed thanks to the adjusted temporary prosthesis which served as prototype for a zirconia bridge with functional occlusion.