Objectives. This study aimed at investigating the influence of fabrication method, storage condition and material on the fracture strength of temporary 3-unit fixed partial dentures (FPDs).

Methods. A CrCo-alloy master model with a 3-unit FPD (abutment teeth 25 and 27) was manufactured. The master model was scanned and the data set transferred to a CAD/CAM unit (Cercon Brain Expert, Degudent, Hanau, Germany). Temporary 3-unit bridges were produced either by milling from pre-fabricated blanks (Trim, Luxatemp AM Plus, Cercon Base PMMA) or by direct fabrication (Trim, Luxatemp AM Plus). 10 FPDs per experimental group were subjected either to water storage at 37 degrees C for 24h and 3 months, respectively, or thermocycled (TC, 5000x, 5-55 degrees C, 1 week). Maximum force at fracture (Fmax) was determined in a 3-point bending test at 200 mm/min. Data was analyzed using parametric statistics (alpha = 5%).

Results. Fmax values ranged from 138.5 to 1115.5N. FPDs, which were CAD/CAM fabricated, showed a significant higher Fmax compared to the directly fabricated bridges (p < 0.05). TC significantly affected Fmax for Luxatemp (p < 0.05) but not for the PMMA based materials (p > 0.05). CAD/CAMmilled FPDs made of Luxatemp showed significantly higher Fmax values compared to Trim and Cercon Base PMMA (p < 0.05).

Significance. CAD/CAM fabricated FPDs exhibit a higher mechanical strength compared to directly fabricated FPDs, when manufactured of the same material. Composite based materials seem to offer clear advantages versus PMMA based materials and should, therefore, be considered for CAD/CAM fabricated temporary restorations. (c) 2010 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.