Prosthetic rehabilitation interventions in adolescents with fixed bridges: a 5-year observational study

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ABSTRACT

Aim

The aim of this work is to verify the rate of success and failure causes of 32 FRC-FPD (Fiber Reinforced
Composite Fixed Partial Dentures) placed on 30 adolescents with dental agenesis, over a follow-up period of 5 years.

Methods

Our study sample involved 30 subjects (10 males and 20 females) aged between 13 and 17 years
who have been rehabilitated with FRC Maryland bridges to treat agenesis of maxillary incisors (for a total of 32 FRC-FPD).
The observational study spans 5 years following the general rules coded by the modified United States Public Health Service
(USPHS) system.

Results

After 5 years of follow-up of a sample of 32 FRC-FPD bridges, 30 were still in effective use (so 2 were excluded). All
the bridges were FRC, replacing a missing lateral incisor, and had a double wing retention. All requirements of stability,
peripheral seal and morphology preservation were well satisfied. The two failed bridges had a structural failure after about
two years from placement.
DISCUSSION AND

Conclusion

In adolescents our orientation about the edentulous rehabilitation is towards solutions
that, when possible, provide an acceptable aesthetic and functional restoration with fixed partial dentures, or removable
dentures in cases of severe oligodontia. Obviously, techniques involving the placement of dental implants before the end of
skeletal growth were never adopted. In our study FRC bridges showed a great functional performance and good compliance
from young patients. Considering the positive cost-benefit ratio and the reversibility of the treatment in case of failure, such
interventions can be considered a highly reliable early rehabilitation. Further studies are necessary to verify the maintenance
requirements tested for longer periods.

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