CAD/CAM cobalt-chromium alloy single crowns in posterior regions: 4-year prospective clinical study

Aim To evaluate the 4-year clinical outcomes of ceramic veneered CAD/CAM Co-Cr single crowns supported by natural teeth in posterior regions.

Material and methods Eighty-nine patients were provided with 120 ceramic veneered CAD/CAM Co-Cr single crowns replacing either premolars and molars. Specific inclusion criteria were set and tooth preparations were standardized and performed by undergraduate students under the supervision of 2 expert prosthodontists. CAD/CAM Co-Cr frameworks were fabricated and veneered with ceramics. The restorations were cemented using a self-etching, dual-cure resin luting agent. The patients were recalled at follow-up every 6 months after  baseline evaluation, for a total observational period of 4 years. The survival and success rates of the restorations were evaluated. The technical and esthetic outcomes were examined using the United States Public Health Service criteria. The biologic outcomes were analyzed at abutments and contralateral teeth and descriptive statistics were performed.

Results None of the SCs was lost at follow-up, resulting in 100% cumulative survival rate and 99.2% cumulative success rates. No losses of retention were recorded. One hundred and eighteen restorations were rated alpha in all the measured parameters. A minor chipping of the veneering porcelain was detected in 1 restoration. No significant differences between the periodontal parameters of  test and control teeth were observed.

Conclusions CAD/CAM Co-Cr single crowns proved to be a valid treatment option and a viable alternative to noble metal-ceramic restorations in posterior regions after 4 years of clinical function.