Do monolithic zirconia restorations affect TMD signs and symptoms? Data from a prospective clinical trial after one year of observation.

PURPOSE To investigate the effect of monolithic zirconia-based occlusal surfaces on signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) after short-term clinical service. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients were supplied with multi-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDP) featuring monolithic zirconia-based occlusal surfaces. Prior to prosthetic treatment and 1 year after insertion anamnestic facial pain, pain with palpation of muscles/joints and joint sounds were examined. RESULTS Of the 50 patients, 43 were re-examined after 1 year. Perceived facial pain was not present, pain with palpation occurred in 2 patients, and TMJ sounds decreased; differences were not statistically significant (P ≥ .058). CONCLUSION Single tooth-supported multiunit FDPs featuring monolithic zirconia-based occlusal surfaces did not affect TMD-associated signs and symptoms.