Lava Product Overview

Advantages:
Adhesive and inlay bridges have the advantage of being minimally invasive. Compared to traditional bridge preparation,
only 3 to 30 % of healthy tooth structure is lost instead of 63 to 72 %. (D. Edelhoff et al. (2002)). This makes these
restorations an attractive option for young people with healthy dentition. In addition, adhesive bridges (Maryland bridges)
show a lower occurrence of post-operative sensitivity due to the enamel retention of the restoration. However, these
restorations are associated with a higher risk of failure in comparison to conventional FPDs (Priest, 1996). Survival rates
of these indications are 70 to 80 % (4 to 6 years) and are lower than conventional FPDs. Debonding of the restorations
and secondary caries are the most prominent failure rate. Undetected debonding of a retainer may lead to plaque accu-
mulation and possibly to subsequent lesions and gingivitis.

Therefore, these indications have to be carefully considered for each clinical situation. For further information also see
the recommendations of the national or regional dental associations.

Patient Selection*

The literature recommends diligence in patient selection:

• Vital abutment teeth
• Only moderate sized carious lesions or restorations not exceeding the preparation depth of adhesive bridges
• Good oral hygiene
• Teeth in final occlusion
• No parafunction (e.g. bruxism)
• No periodontal hypermobility of abutment teeth or high difference in abutment teeth mobility
• No heavy occlusal load on the restoration
  
  

(St George G. et al. 2002; St George G. et al. 2002; Ketabi 2004; Stokes A. (2002); C.J. Goodacre et al. 2003; Zalkind M. et al. 2003)
*References: please look on the inside back cover for more informations.