Treatment efficacy of non-metal and single-retainer resin-bonded prostheses for anterior single-tooth loss: A systematic review

Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the treatment efficacy of resin-bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPDs) in adults with single-tooth loss. The target interventions included the use of: (1) non-metal retainers, (2) single-retainer (SR) RBFPDs, and (3) non-metal SR-RBFPDs, compared with conventional metal and two-retainer (TR) RBFPDs.

Study selection: A comprehensive literature search of the MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Web of Science, and Ichushi databases up to November 30, 2025 was conducted; additionally, reference list screening and manual searches were performed by an external organization. Target outcomes included RBFPD survival rate, abutment tooth prognosis, oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), patient satisfaction, esthetics, periodontal status, and oral function. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment, with disagreements resolved through discussion.

Results: A total of eight, six, and three articles were included for each respective comparison. There were no significant differences in survival rate, esthetics, OHRQoL, patient satisfaction, or periodontal condition between non-metal and metal retainer RBFPDs. Comparisons involving SR-RBFPDs suggested a tendency toward favorable survival and abutment tooth outcomes; however, these findings were based on a limited number of studies and should be interpreted with caution. No clear differences in OHRQoL, patient satisfaction, or esthetics were identified.

Conclusions: Based on the available evidence, non-metal RBFPDs and SR-RBFPDs may be considered viable treatment options compared with metal and/or TR-RBFPDs. However, the current evidence is limited and applies primarily to anterior single-tooth loss. Further well-designed clinical studies are required to clarify the indications and long-term outcomes of SR-RBFPDs.