A retrospective evaluation of teeth restored with zirconia ceramic posts: 10-year results

• Published in: Clinical oral investigations 2014-05, Vol.18 (4), p.1181-1187
• Main Authors: Bateli, Maria, Kern, Matthias, Wolkewitz, Martin, Strub, Jörg R., Att, Wael
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ceramics; Dentistry; Humans; Medicine; Original Article; Post and Core Technique; Retrospective Studies; Zirconium
• ISSN: 1432-6981; 1436-3771
• DOI: 10.1007/s00784-013-1065-5

Introduction Zirconia posts can be used as an esthetic alternative to metal posts. Despite their advantages, there is a lack of information about the long-term performance of zirconia posts. Objectives This retrospective clinical study examined the survival probability, clinical performance, and reasons for failure of teeth restored with zirconia posts after an observation period of up to 10 years. Materials and methods After a mean observation period of 10 years, clinical and radiographic examinations were carried out for a total of 64 posts in 45 patients. The posts received mainly either ceramic or direct composite buildups. All posts were adhesively cemented, after air abrasion with alumina particles or silica coating and silanization. The majority of the reconstructed teeth were used as abutments for metal ceramic or ceramic fixed dental prostheses. Kaplan–Meier analysis was employed to compute the survival probability of teeth restored with zirconia posts. Cox regression analysis was used to assess the risk of failure and to identify possible covariates. Results During the follow-up period, a drop-out rate of 49.4 % was recorded. The survival probability for teeth with zirconia posts was 81.3 % after 10 years. Conclusion Within the limits of this study, zirconia posts can be used for abutments that will be restored with ceramic restorations. However, due to the high patient drop-out rate, careful interpretation of the current results is suggested. Clinical relevance The present paper is the first 10-year clinical study on teeth restored with zirconia posts and could serve as a reference for future research. In addition, it provides long-term data about restorations already implemented by dental practitioners.