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Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of In-Ceram
Zirconia posterior fixed partial dentures (FPD) after 3 years in service. Materials and
Methods: Eighteen In-Ceram Zirconia FPDs were fabricated in 16 patients. The FPDs
were placed between January and April 1999. The CDA quality evaluation system was
used for assessment of surface and color, anatomic form, and marginal integrity. Bleeding
on probing was also recorded. Results: One of the 18 posterior FPDs was lost because of
a root fracture. All remaining FPDs were rated as either excellent or acceptable after the
observation period. Bleeding was more often recorded at crowned abutments with In-
Ceram Zirconia than at contralateral teeth. Conclusion: In-Ceram Zirconia posterior FPDs
seem to be an acceptable treatment alternative in a 3-year perspective. However, more
clinical long-term follow-up studies must be performed before the system can be
recommended as an alternative to conventional FPDs. Int J Prosthodont 2004;17:35–38.
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