Connector Design and Pontic Span Length as Determinants of Mechanical Performance in Zirconia Fixed Dental Prostheses: A Systematic Review

Objectives: To systematically evaluate the influence of connector design and pontic span length on the mechanical performance of zirconia fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines (8). Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. In vitro and finite element analysis (FEA) studies evaluating zirconia FDPs were included. Results: A total of 11 studies were included. Across all studies, connector regions were consistently identified as the primary site of fracture initiation. Reduced connector dimensions significantly decreased fracture resistance and fatigue life, whereas increased cross-sectional area and optimized geometry improved stress distribution and mechanical performance. Longer pontic spans were associated with increased stress concentration and reduced structural stability. Conclusions: Connector design and pontic span length are critical determinants of the biomechanical behavior of zirconia FDPs. Clinical significance: Optimization of connector dimensions and geometry is essential to improve the longevity and reliability of zirconia FDPs.