Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the propertie
s of the In-Ceram material are adequate for use in posterior three-unit fix
ed partial dentures (FPD) and to evaluate the clinical method regarding pre
paration technique, design, and choice of cement. Materials and Methods: Ei
ghteen patients were treated with a total of 20 posterior three-unit FPDs a
ccording to the In-Ceram technique. The FPDs were constructed with bilatera
l support and one pontic and were all replacing one premolar or a molar (11
replacing premolars and 9 replacing molars). They were evaluated 6 months
after delivery and then once yearly. Results: Eighteen of the 20 FPDs (90%)
showed no defects at any of the follow-up examinations and were functionin
g well after 5 years. No caries or signs of gingivitis or periodontitis exc
eeding those found in the rest of the dentition were registered. Conclusion
: The In-Ceram technique is, in a 5-year perspective and adopted for three-
unit FPDs, an acceptable treatment alternative. Further studies must, howev
er, be performed before the material can be recommended for more extensive
restorations than the FPDs included in this study.