Lucien Dupagne

and 2 more

INTRODUCTIONThe concept of cantilevered fixed partial denture (CFPD) was described as early as 1960.1 Subsequently, the innovations in dental materials and adhesive dentistry allowed for the description of full ceramic CFPDs as a sound solution for the replacement of missing anterior teeth in 1997.2 Since this initial description, this therapeutic solution has provided patients with a minimally invasive alternative to three-unit fixed partial dentures (FPD). The indication of CFPD is often disputed in comparison with an implant-based treatment, which in some cases, can present challenges, or even be contraindicated. In this regard, CFPDs benefits from more reproducible esthetics, quicker execution and lower costs.2The question remains, however, whether this method would also be suitable for the replacement of missing teeth in the posterior sector, the main problem being the significant increase in occlusal loads on the premolars and molars.3 Different teams have begun to develop posterior CFPDs and some already have the necessary follow-up to validate this practice.4-8 The material used in these early clinical trials has been zirconia doped with 3%mol yttrium oxide (3Y-TZP), which gives the best mechanical properties at the expense of low aesthetic translucency. Yazigii and Kern recommend a thickness of 0.7mm zirconia of the overlay part and a connector of at least 3mm in vertical section and 3mm in horizontal section to ensure the mechanical resistance of the CFPD’s pontic in the posterior sector.6 This case report describes the realization of a reinforced glass-ceramic CFPD replacing à first premolar, this material opens the possibility of single appointment chairside production, and has superior adhesive and esthetic characteristics compared to zirconia.9-11 Its lower mechanical resistance is however to be taken into consideration,12 but still might be suitable if some prerequisites are met.