Reinforced porcelain system: a new concept in ceramometal restorations.

The RPS concept and technique for the fabrication of ceramometal fixed restorations includes a new design for the metal structures of crowns and pontics and intermediate zone materials that function between the metal and the porcelain. The RPS metal design for anterior and posterior crowns consists of thimble copings with shelves, belts, and blades. These metal extensions enhance procelain fracture resistance to impact and shearing forces. The mutual reinforcement of the porcelain and the interconnecting metal bar structure of RPS pontics produces durable restorations. The RPS intermediate zone materials secure the bond between porcelain and all types of ceramic alloys and produce stress relief zones at the interface.