Data extraction and synthesis- The studies were divided into two categories: those that considered inlay and onlay restorations and those that considered crowns. Qualitative assessment was conducted.
Results- Nine studies were selected, six of which assessed the performance of inlays and onlays made with the pressable glass matrix IPS-Empress system (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein; IPS- Empress is the registered trade name of this ceramic restoration) and three of which examined the performance of IPS-Empress crowns. Survival for inlays and onlays ranged from 96% at 4.5 years to 91% at 7 years, with most failures being caused by bulk fracture. The survival of crowns ranged from 92% to 99% at 3–3.5 years, with failure again being caused primarily by fracture.
Conclusions- Use of IPS-Empress crowns is not recommended in the posterior region of the mouth until the results of a sufficient number of long-term clinical trials of premolars and molars are available.
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