Periodontal response to cantilevered and fixed-fixed resin bonded bridges.

The periodontal response to two types of resin bonded bridges was investigated. Cantilever or fixed-fixed resin bonded bridges which had been in service for at least two years were reviewed. Periodontal indices (plaque index, gingival index, bleeding index and pocket depth) were recorded for each bridge abutment and for matched contralateral teeth. There was no difference in the periodontal condition of the abutment teeth between cantilever and fixed-fixed resin bonded bridges, after they had been in service for at least two years. There was evidence of greater plaque accumulation and higher gingivitis levels affecting abutment teeth for both types of bridges compared with control teeth.