Development and clinical applications of a light-polymerized fiber-reinforced composite.
BACKGROUND
After 0 years of intermittent reports in the literature, the use of fiber reinforcement is just now experiencing rapid expansion in dentistry.


OBJECTIVE
This article describes the development and use of a continuous, unidirectional fiber reinforced composite as a framework for the fabrication of fixed prostheses.


METHODS
By using various matrix materials and fibers, a number of fiber-reinforced composite formulations were evaluated with the goal of creating a system with optimized mechanical properties and handling characteristics. Fiber-reinforced composite based on a light polymerized BIS-GMA matrix has been used clinically to make 2-phase prostheses comprised of an internal glass fiber-reinforced composite substructure covered by a particulate composite. The clinical and laboratory procedures required for the fabrication and use of reinforced composite fixed prostheses are described for laboratory-fabricated complete or partial coverage fixed prosthesis and chairside prosthesis.


RESULTS
Although additional clinical experience is needed, fiber-reinforced composite materials can be used to make metal-free prostheses with excellent esthetic qualities.
University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, Farmington, USA.
M A
MA
Freilich
A C
AC
Karmaker
C J
CJ
Burstone
A J
AJ
Goldberg
D017438:Bisphenol A-Glycidyl Methacrylate / Q000737:chemistry; D003188:Composite Resins / Q000737:chemistry*; D003779:Denture Design; D003830:Denture, Partial, Fixed; D006801:Humans; D008422:Materials Testing; D016876:Metal Ceramic Alloys; D018583:Pliability; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry; D019904:Polymethyl Methacrylate / Q000737:chemistry; D014783:Viscosity
D003188:Composite Resins; C113550:FiberKor, sculpture; D016876:Metal Ceramic Alloys; D011108:Polymers; C113549:splint-It, FRC material; D017438:Bisphenol A-Glycidyl Methacrylate; D019904:Polymethyl Methacrylate