Factors influencing the adaptation of fiber-reinforced composite resin bridges

Abstract

We evaluated the adaptation and dimensional changes in fiber-reinforced composite resin (FRC) bridges fabricated with a hybrid composite resin. Metallic molds were prepared either with square or rounded shoulders. The axial and occlusal surfaces of the die abutments were treated either with no die-spacer or application of one, two or three layers. The test specimens were measured using a three-dimensional scanning system that determined the dimensions of both the outline of the metallic mold and of the inner surface of the abutment prosthesis. The scanning data were adjusted and analyzed using CAD software. Statistical analysis was performed by means of three-way ANOVA with the three factors of die-spacer coating, shape of the preparation and the measurement point location.
     ANOVA analysis demonstrated that all three factors were significant (p<0.01). We were able to determine how the thickness of the die-spacer and the shape of the preparation affected adaptation of the FRC bridges.