The Effect of Different Fixed Partial Denture Materials on Periodontal Health

Objectives: Metal ceramic restorations have been widely used in dentistry, but because of aesthetic demand there has been a move toward ceramic restorations such as zirconium dioxide.
The purpose of this clinical study is to investigate and to compare the effect of zirconia and metal alloy materials on periodontal tissues around the abutment teeth.
Methods: 12 systemically healthy patients who needed two posterior three-unit fixed partial dentures (FPDs) were included in the study. Each patient had one zirconia and one metal ceramic restoration. 24 FPDs (12 zirconia and 12 metal ceramic) were fabricated in total. The abutment teeth were periodontally evaluated before tooth preparation, at 1st week and at 6 months following cementation. Periodontal health of abutment teeth was assessed by determining the plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival index GI, probing pocket depth (PPD) and position of gingival margin of the abutment teeth. Also MMP-8 concentration of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was determined biochemically using the ELISA method. Statistical analysis was performed by NCSS (Number Cruncher Statistical System ) 2007 Statistical Software (Utah , USA).
Results: PI and BOP scores of metal ceramic restorations were significantly higher than those of the zirconia material at 1st week of cementation (p<0.05). No significant differences were observed between two groups with regard to other periodontal parameters and GCF values at other measurement periods.
Conclusions: Periodontal tissues exhibited a good response to both types of restoration materials. For more reliable results, studies with more patients and a longer follow-up period are needed.