Bond strength of glass fiber reinforced composite and base metal frameworks used in resin-bonded fixed partial dentures

Glass fiber reinforced composite (GFRC) for the fabrication of esthetic fixed partial dentures (FPDs) have been recently developed. The aim of this invitro study was to measure and to compare the bond strength of GFRC and base metal as framework used in maxillary anterior resin-bonded FPDs. Twenty resin-bonded FPDs were made with GFRC and base metal. The specimens were stored for 2 weeks at 37°±1°C in distilled water, thermo cycled (5°-55°C, x 2500) and statically loaded to fracture. The instron universal testing machine measured bond strength of the specimens. A metal cone with 1.0mm tip cut vertically to the center of labial surface of pontic with 1.0mm/min speed to debond of prosthesis from abutment teeth. The debonding force was recorded in Newtons. The mean and standard deviation for bond strength of GFRC RBFPDs were 113±45 and for base metal RBFPDs were 43±32 Newtons. ANOVA showed that bond strength between the two groups were statistically significant (P≤0.0009). Although more clinical experience is needed it is possible to use, fiber reinforced composite materials for metal-free prostheses to obtain excellent esthetic qualities.