Implant-supported full-arch zirconia-based mandibular fixed dental prostheses. Eight-year results from a clinical pilot study

Objective. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the long-term clinical performance of implant-supported full-arch zirconia-based fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). Materials and methods. Ten patients received full-arch zirconia-based (Cercon) mandibular FDPs supported by four implants (Astra Tech). Nine patients received 10-unit FDPs and one patient received a 9-unit FDP. The FDPs were cemented onto individually prepared titanium abutments and were evaluated at baseline and after 12, 24, 36 and 96 months. Results. Nine patients attended the 8-year follow-up. None of the restorations showed bulk fracture, all FDPs were in use. Fractures of the veneering porcelain were, however, observed in eight patients. A total of 36 out of 89 units (40%) showed such fractures. Patient satisfaction was excellent despite the veneering material fractures. Conclusion. Results from this 8-year pilot study suggest that implant-supported full-arch zirconia-based FDPs can be an acceptable treatment alternative.