Introduction: The remit of this working group was to update the existing knowledge base in ceramics in implant dentistry. The reviews from working group 1 formed the basis for this update. Moreover, clinical applications as well as suggestions for further research have been formulated.
Materials and methods: The papers in the working group critically reviewed the literature on the topic. Manuscripts were produced on: 1. The performance of ceramic and metal implant abutments supporting fixed implant reconstructions. 2. The viability of ceramic implants as alternatives to titanium implants. 3. The survival and complications of CAD-CAM reconstructions as compared with FDPs which have been fabricated using conventional techniques.
Results: The results and conclusions of the review process are presented in the following papers, together with the group consensus statements, clinical implications and directions for future research: Sailer I., Philipp A., Zembic A., Pjetursson B. E., Hämmerle C. H. F., Zwahlen M. A systematic review of the performance of ceramic and metal implant abutments supporting fixed implant reconstructions. Andreiotelli M., Wenz H. J., Kohal R.-J. Are ceramic implants a viable alternative to titanium implants? A systematic literature review. Harder S., Kern M. Survival and complications of CAD-CAM vs. conventionally fabricated reconstructions: a systematic review.