Effect of airborne-particle abrasion of a titanium base abutment on the stability of the bonded interface and retention forces of crowns after artificial aging

Do all ceramic and composite CAD-CAM materials exhibit equal bonding properties to implant Ti-base materials? An Interfacial Fracture Toughness Study

OBJECTIVES

To compare the interfacial fracture toughness (IFT) with or without aging, of four different classes of CAD-CAM ceramic and composite materials bonded with self-adhesive resin cement to titanium alloy characteristic of implant abutments.

METHODS

High translucent zirconia (Katana; KAT), lithium disilicate-based glass-ceramic (IPS. emax.CAD; EMX), polymer-infiltrated ceramic network material (PICN) (Vita Enamic; ENA), and dispersed filler composite (Cerasmart 270; CER) were cut into equilateral triangular prisms and bonded to titanium prisms with identical dimensions using Panavia SA Cement Universal. The surfaces were pretreated following the manufacturers' recommendations and developed interfacial area ratio (Sdr) of the pretreated surfaces was measured. IFT was determined using the Notchless Triangular Prism test in a water bath at 36 °C before and after thermocycling (10,000 cycles) (n = 40 samples/material).

RESULTS

IFT of the materials ranged from 0.80 ± 0.25 to 1.10 ± 0.21 MPa.m1/2 before thermocycling and from 0.71 ± 0.24 to 1.02 ± 0.25 MPa.m1/2 after thermocycling. There was a statistical difference between IFT of CER and the two top performers in each scenario: KAT and EMX before aging, and KAT and ENA after aging. Thermocycling significantly decreased IFT of EMX. The Weibull modulus of IFT was similar for all materials and remained so after thermocycling. Sdr measurements revealed that ENA (7.60)>Ti (4.97)>CER (2.85)>KAT (1.09)=EMX (0.96).

SIGNIFICANCE

Dispersed filler CAD-CAM composite showed lower performance than the other materials. Aging only affected IFT of Li-Si glass-ceramic, whereas zirconia and PICN performed equally well, probably due to their chemical bonding potential and surface roughness respectively.

Material and abutment selection for CAD/CAM implant-supported fixed dental prostheses in partially edentulous patients - A narrative review

Restorative material selection has become increasingly challenging due to the speed of new developments in the field of dental material science. The present narrative review gives an overview of the current indications for implant abutments and restoration materials for provisional and definitive implant-supported fixed dental prostheses in partially edentulous patients. For single implant restorations, titanium base abutments for crowns are suggested as an alternative to the conventional stock- and customized abutments made out of metal or zirconia. They combine the mechanical stability of a metallic connection with the esthetic potential of ceramics. For multiple-unit restorations, conical titanium bases especially designed for bridges are recommended, to compensate for deviating implant insertion axes and angulations. Even though titanium base abutments with different geometries and heights are available, certain clinical scenarios still benefit from customized titanium abutments. Indications for the definitive material in fixed implant restorations depend on the region of tooth replacement. In the posterior (not esthetically critical) zone, ceramics such as zirconia (3-5-Ymol%) and lithium-disilicate are recommended to be used in a monolithic fashion. In the anterior sector, ceramic restorations may be buccally micro-veneered for an optimal esthetic appearance. Lithium-disilicate is only recommended for single-crowns, while zirconia (3-5-Ymol%) is also recommended for multiple-unit and cantilever restorations. Attention must be given to the specific mechanical properties of different types of zirconia, as some feature reduced mechanical strengths and are therefore not indicated for all regions and restoration span lengths. Metal-ceramics remain an option, especially for cantilever restorations.

The influence of titanium-base abutment geometry and height on mechanical stability of implant-supported single crowns

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the influence of titanium base (ti-base) abutment macro- and micro-geometry on the mechanical stability of polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) screw-retained implant-supported single crowns (iSCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twelve specimens per group were used, comprising six different implant/ti-base abutment combinations restored with PICN iSCs: Nb-T (gingival height [GH]: 1.5 mm, prosthetic height [PH]: 4.3 mm), CC (GH: 0.8 mm, PH: 4.3 mm), CC-P (GH: 0.8 mm, PH: 7 mm), Nb-V (GH: 1.5 mm, PH: 6 mm), St (GH: 1.5 mm, PH: 5.5 mm), and Th (GH: 0.5 mm, PH: 9 mm). The specimens underwent thermo-mechanical aging, and those that survived were subsequently subjected to static loading until failure. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test followed by Tukey post hoc test (α = .05).

RESULTS

All specimens survived thermo-mechanical aging without complications, namely, visible cracks, debonding, or screw loosening. Th group demonstrated the highest strength values among all the groups, with significant differences compared to Nb-T (p < .05), CC (p < .001), and St (p < .001). Additionally, CC-P group exhibited significantly superior fracture strength results compared to CC (p < .05) and St (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

The choice of ti-base, particularly prosthetic height, had a significant influence on fracture resistance of PICN iSCs. Nevertheless, the height or geometrical features of the ti-base did not exhibit a significant influence on the mechanical behavior of the iSC/ti-base assembly under thermomechanical loading, as all specimens withstood the aging without complication or failure.

Mechanical stability of posterior implant-supported monolithic zirconia cantilever on titanium-base abutments. An in vitro study

PURPOSE

Investigate survival and technical complications of two-unit posterior implant-supported cantilever made of monolithic zirconia on titanium-base abutments (Zr-TiB) vs. porcelain-fused-to-metal on castable gold abutments (PFM-GA) using two different implant connections, internal butt-joint (IBJ) and internal conical (IC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight implants (4.3 mm diameter) were divided into four groups (n = 12) to support 2-unit mandibular premolar cantilevers with two different materials (Zr-TiB vs. PFM-GA) and two connection types (IBJ vs. IC). Tested groups were as follows: (1) IBJ/Zr-TiB; (2) IBJ/PFM-GA; (3) IC/Zr-TiB; and (4) IC/PFM-GA. Specimens were thermomechanical aged (1,200,000 cycles, 98 N, 5-55°C) with occlusal axial load on the pontic. Catastrophic and non-catastrophic events were registered, and removal torque values measured before and after aging. Specimens surviving aging were subjected to loading until failure. Survival, total complication rates, torque loss (%), and bending moments were calculated.

RESULTS

From 48 specimens, 38 survived aging. Survival rates significantly varied from 16.7% (IC/PFM-GA) to 100% (IBJ/Zr-TiB; IBJ/PFM-GA; IC/Zr-TiB) (p < .01). Internal conical connection revealed significantly higher torque loss (IC/ZrTiB - 67%) compared to internal butt-joint (IBJ/Zr-TiB - 44%; IBJ/PFM-GA - 46%) (p < .01). Bending moments were higher in internal butt-joint connections than in internal conical (p < .05).

CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Two-unit posterior implant-supported cantilever FDPs replacing mandibular premolars composed of monolithic zirconia on titanium-base abutments demonstrated higher mechanical stability compared to porcelain-fused-to-metal on castable gold abutments in this in vitro study. The internal conical connection combined with porcelain-fused-to-metal on gold abutments revealed a high number of failures; therefore, their clinical use may be considered cautiously for this indication.

Effects of sterilization, conditioning, and thermal aging on the retention of zirconia hybrid abutments: A laboratory study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of sterilization, conditioning method, and thermal aging on the retentive strength of two-piece zirconia abutments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 128 stock zirconia abutments were divided into four groups (n = 32) according to the conditioning parameters: (A) air-abrasion using 50 μm alumina particles/1.0 bar, (B) 50 μm/2.0 bar, (C) 100 μm/1.0 bar, and (D) 100 μm/2.0 bar. All abutments were bonded onto titanium bases using DTK adhesive resin and stored in water bath (37°C) for 72 h. Each group was subdivided into two subgroups (n = 16), group 1 was disinfected, whereas group 2 followed disinfection and autoclave sterilization. Half of the specimens of each subgroup (n&#x02009;=&#x02009;8) was directly subjected to the axial retention test (groups N), while the other half was first subjected to 150&#x02009;days of thermocycling followed by retention test (groups T). Statistical analysis was performed with three-way ANOVA, additional statistical analysis was performed by using separate one-way ANOVAs followed by the Tukey's post-hoc test for post hoc pairwise comparisons among groups.

RESULTS

The highest median retention strength was recorded for group B2N (1390 N), whereas the lowest strength was recorded for group C1T (688 N). No significant interaction (p ≥ 0.05) was detected between the different variables; conditioning method, sterilization, and the thermal cycling regarding the effect on the resulting retention. However, the sterilization always showed a positive effect. Thermocycling presented an adversely significant effect only in the absence of sterilization (p < 0.05), with the exception of subgroups A. For the sterilized groups, thermocycling had no statistically significant effect on the retention.

CONCLUSION

Steam autoclaving increased the retention of hybrid zirconia abutments. DTK adhesive resin for two-piece zirconia abutments performed well after sterilization and thermocycling.

Retention of titanium copings to implant-supported fixed dental prostheses

PURPOSE

The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the effects of using different cements and titanium copings designs on the retention of implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (IFDPs) using a pull-out test.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty zirconia (ZirCAD; Ivoclar Vivadent) and 20 prepolymerized denture acrylic resin (AvaDent) rectangular (36 mm × 12 mm × 8 mm) specimens were milled to mimic the lower left segmental portion of the All-on-Four IFDPs. Cylindrical titanium copings (Variobase; Straumann) (V) were used in 2 prepolymerized denture acrylic resin groups (n = 10) while conical titanium copings (Straumann) (C) were used as a control group for zirconia with 4 groups using cylindrical titanium copings. Before cementation, the outer surfaces of all titanium copings and the intaglio bonding surface of prosthetic specimens were airborne-particle abraded. All specimens were cemented following the manufacturer's recommendations and instructions according to the experimental design. After artificial aging (5000 cycles of 5°C 55°C, dwelling time 20 s; 150 N, 1.5 Hz in a 37°C water bath), all specimens were subjected to retention force testing using a pull-out test using a universal testing machine and a custom fixture with a crosshead speed 5 mm/min. Modes of failure were classified as Type 1, 2, or 3. Retention force values were analyzed by the t-test for the prepolymerized denture acrylic resin specimen groups, and 1-way ANOVA and the Tukey test for the zirconia groups at α = 0.05.

RESULTS

Mean and standard deviation retention force values varied from 101.1 ± 67.1 to 509.0 ± 65.2 N for the prepolymerized denture acrylic resin specimen groups. The zirconia groups ranged from 572.8 ± 274.7 to 1416.1 ± 258.0 N. There is no statistically significant difference in retention force values between V and C specimens cementing to zirconia with Panavia SA cement (Kuraray Noritake) (p = 0.587). The retention forces and failure modes were influenced by the cement used (p < 0.05). Modes of failure were predominantly Type 2 (mixed failure) and Type 1 (adhesive fracture from prosthetic materials) except for the quick-set resin group (Type 3, adhesive failure from coping).

CONCLUSIONS

When bonding IFDPs onto titanium copings, quick-set resin provided significantly higher retention force for prepolymerized denture acrylic resin prostheses. Conical and cylindrical titanium copings performed similarly when cemented to zirconia with Panavia SA cement under the same protocol. The stability of the bonded interface and retention forces between zirconia prostheses and titanium copings varied from the cement used.

Influence of sterilization on the retention forces of lithium disilicate and polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network crowns bonded to titanium base abutments: An in-vitro study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sterilization on the retention forces of lithium disilicate (LD) and polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) crowns bonded to titanium base (Ti-base) abutments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty LD and 40 PICN crowns were milled and then bonded to 80 Ti-bases with two resin composite cements: Multilink Hybrid Abutment (mh) and Panavia V5 (pv) for a total of 8 groups (n = 10). Half of the specimens (test) underwent an autoclaving protocol (pressure 1.1 bar, 121°C, 20.5 min) and the other half not (control). Restorations were screw-retained to implants, and retention forces (N) were measured with a pull-off testing machine. The surfaces of the Ti-bases and the crowns were inspected for the analysis of the integrity of the marginal bonding interface and failure mode. Student's t-test, chi-square test, and univariate linear regression model were performed to analyze the data (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

The mean pull-off retention forces ranged from 487.7 ± 73.4 N to 742.2 ± 150.3 N. Sterilized groups showed statistically significant overall higher maximum retention forces (p < .05), except for one combination (LD + mh). Sterilization led to an increased presence of marginal gaps and deformities compared to no-sterilization (p < .001), while no statistically significant relationship was found between failure mode and sterilization (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Sterilization may have a beneficial effect on the retention forces of LD and PICN crowns bonded to titanium base abutments, although it may negatively influence the integrity of the marginal bonding interface.

Marginal fit and fracture resistance of polyetheretherketone, zirconia, and titanium implant-supported prosthesis frameworks for a partially edentulous arch after thermomechanical aging

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Although polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and zirconia (Zir) have been used as implant-supported prosthesis (ISP) frameworks, the long-term effects of thermomechanical aging on the marginal fit and fracture resistance of PEEK and Zir ISP frameworks with titanium (Ti) bases for patients with a partially edentulous arch are not clear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the marginal fit and fracture resistance of PEEK and Zir ISP frameworks with Ti bases and Ti ISP frameworks for partially edentulous arches after aging.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 30 ISP epoxy resin casts were obtained from a typodont with 1 straight implant (Nobel Biocare) in the mandibular right canine region and 1 implant with a 30-degree distal tilt in the mandibular right first molar region. All frameworks (n=10) were fabricated on their own epoxy resin cast with multiunit abutment replicas by using a computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing system (exocad-Yenadent). The PEEK and Zir frameworks were fabricated with Ti-bases. Primer (MKZ) and resin cement (DTK adhesive) were used to cement the frameworks to the Ti-bases under a static load of 10 N. After thermomechanical aging (1.2×106 cycles, 120 N, 5 °C-55 °C), marginal gaps between the Ti-bases and cemented frameworks and vertical and passive fits between the Ti-bases and framework and multi-unit abutments were measured by using a stereomicroscope (Euromex) at ×100 magnification. Fracture resistances and types were then determined by using a universal test machine and a stereomicroscope at ×40 magnification. Data were analyzed by using 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey HSD and Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests (α=.05).

RESULTS

The marginal gaps of the PEEK and Zir frameworks were respectively 83.5 ±27.1 and 81.8 ±17.8 µm. PEEK (23.7 ±4.6) and Zir (32.9 ±8.7) had a better vertical fit (µm) than Ti (52.5 ±10.6) (P<.001). Zir (49.3 ±16.2) (P<.001) and PEEK (70.9 ±19.6) (P>.05) frameworks had better passive fit (µm) than Ti (91.3 ±24.2). Ti had the highest mean fracture resistance (N) (14800.2 ±3442.3) followed by Zir (7318.7 ±1385.1) and PEEK (3448.9 ±486.6) (P<.001). Fracture types were different in different groups (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The PEEK and Zir frameworks with Ti bases had better vertical and passive fit than the Ti frameworks. All ISP frameworks represented mean marginal fit below 92 µm and withstood physiologic occlusal forces after thermomechanical aging.

Clinical performance of implant-supported single hybrid abutment crown restoration: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To investigate survival rates and technical and biological complications of one-piece screw-retained hybrid abutments in implant-supported single crowns (SCs).

STUDY SELECTION

An electronic search was performed on five databases for clinical studies involving implant-supported single hybrid abutment crowns constructed using titanium-base (Ti base) abutments, with at least 12 months of follow-up. The RoB 2, Robins-I, and JBI tools were used to assess the risk of bias for the different study types. Success, survival, and complication rates were calculated, and a meta-analysis was performed to obtain a pooled estimate. Peri-implant health parameters were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

22 records (20 studies) were included in this analysis. Direct comparisons between screw-retained hybrid abutment SCs and cemented SCs showed no significant differences in the 1-year survival and success rates. For SCs using a hybrid abutment crown design, their 1-year survival rate was 100% (95% CI: 100%-100%, I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.984), and a success rate of 99% (95% CI: 97%-100%, I2 = 50.3%, P = 0.023) was calculated. No confounding variables significantly affected the estimates. The individual technical complication rate was low at 1-year follow-up. The estimated incidence of all types of complications in hybrid abutment SCs is less than 1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this study, implant-supported SCs using a hybrid abutment crown design showed favorable short-term clinical outcomes. Additional well-designed clinical trials with at least a 5-year observation period are required to confirm their long-term clinical performance.

Translucent monolithic zirconia titanium-supported FP1 full-arch prosthesis: A novel proof of concept to address esthetic, functional, and biologic challenges

OBJECTIVE

Despite the wide clinical use of translucent zirconia for full-arch implant prostheses, reduced flexural strength and fracture toughness compared with high-strength opaque zirconia needs to be addressed. A novel proof of concept for FP1 full-arch prosthesis featured by translucent monolithic zirconia and titanium framework was presented.

CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Computer-guided implant planning and surgery were executed and digitally designed FP1 temporary prosthesis prefabricated. Implant and prosthetic placement were achieved with a set of three-dimensional (3D)-printed templates. Implants were immediately loaded. After 4 months intraoral optical scan was taken to record implant coordinates, soft tissue anatomy, and temporary FP1 prosthesis. A novel digital workflow was used to design and mill overlaying translucent zirconia and anatomically shaped titanium framework with a scalloped soft-tissue interface. Final FP1 prosthesis was assembled cementing zirconia jacket on titanium counterpart.

CONCLUSIONS

Translucent zirconia supported by titanium framework can address esthetic and mechanical requirements of FP1 full-arch prosthesis, minimizing risk of fracture and providing a rigid and passive joint with supporting implants. The smooth and highly polished titanium surface with an anatomic design, tightly matching scalloped soft tissue interface, can limit food impaction, air and saliva leakage and contribute to overall biologic integration of FP1 full-arch prosthesis.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Translucent monolithic zirconia featured with anatomically shaped titanium framework with scalloped transmucosal part, combining a pleasant esthetic outcome with increased flexural strength and fracture toughness, may be indicated to increase the clinical performance of FP1 full-arch prosthesis.

Retention of zirconia crown to oxidized titanium base abutment: Experimental research

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

To separate the crown from the titanium base abutment, by using heat, caused oxidization of the titanium base abutment. The effect of this procedure on the retention of a crown is unclear.

PURPOSE

To compare the resin bond strength and failure type between zirconia crowns and titanium base abutments utilizing four different surface treatments. Surface roughness and morphology of each surface treatment were also investigated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty titanium base abutments (Variobase®) were divided into four groups, 1. Control, 2. Air abraded, 3. Oxidized, and 4. Oxidized-air abraded. Oxidized and oxidized-air abraded groups were debonded from zirconia crowns using constant dry heat at 500 ˚C. For air abraded and oxidized-air abraded groups (after oxidization), the titanium base abutments were air abraded with Al3O2. After cleaning, one specimen of each group was investigated under a non-contact profilometer (50x), then the same samples were investigated under SEM at 25,300,500,1000 magnification and EDS at 30kV of accelerated voltage. All specimens were then cemented (RelyX Ultimate). After aging, with thermocycling under 5C° to 55C°,120 seconds dwell time for 5,000 cycles, bond strength was tested and statistical differences were calculated with One-way ANOVA (p-value <0.05) follow by Tukey test. All separated crowns and titanium base abutments were investigated under a light microscope (20x), using fisher's exact test for correlation of the failure types.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the mean value of tensile bond strength among the control and test groups. Comparisons between control(237.6±46.3N) and oxidized(241.7±46.3N) showed statistically different values from air abraded(372.9±113.2N) when assembled using different surface treatments of the titanium-based abutments. (p-value<0.005) As for failure type, there were statistically significant differences between control versus air abraded, control versus oxidized-air abraded, oxidized versus air abraded, and oxidized versus oxidized-air abraded. (p-value<0.001) The titanium surface morphology shown from the profilometer and SEM was coordinated. Control (Ra 333.8nm) and oxidized (Ra 321.0nm) groups surfaces showed smooth, corrugated surfaces, meanwhile air abraded (Ra 476.0nm) and oxidized-air abraded (Ra 423.8nm) groups showed rough, rugged surfaces.

CONCLUSION

Heat oxidization of titanium-based abutments did not adversely affect tensile bond strength or the failure mode and surface roughness between titanium base abutments and zirconia crowns. However, air abrasion of the titanium surface increased surface roughness and retentive strength.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The titanium base abutments that were oxidized under heat treatment did not have an effect on crown retention. Thoroughly air abraded the titanium abutment prior to cementation can increase cement bond strength.

Retention of hybrid-abutment-crowns with offset implant placement: influence of Crown materials and Ti-base height

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the current study was to assess the impact of three esthetic CAD/CAM material, titanium base height and their interaction on the retention strength of a hybrid-abutment-crown.

METHODS

A total of 42 hybrid-abutment crowns with identical external geometries were designed in CAD software to fit two different Ti-Base abutment heights (n = 42/abutment height): either short (S) with 4 mm (n = 21) or long (L) 7 mm (n = 21) height. Each main group was divided into 3 subgroups (n = 7), according to esthetic crown material, Zirconia (Z), Lithium disilicate (L) and Hybrid ceramic (V). A universal primer and an adhesive resin cement were used for bonding according to the manufacturer instructions. Artificial aging in form of water storage (30 days), chewing simulation (50,000-cycles, 49 N, 1.67 Hz) and thermal cyclic (5000 cycles at 5-55 °C) were applied, specimens were pulled-out under tension load in (N) using a universal testing machine. Two and one-way ANOVA and Post Hoc Tukey test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Long lithium disilicate (LL) group showed the highest retention (738.7 ± 178.5) followed by short lithium disilicate (LS) group (688.6 ± 169.9). Meanwhile, short zirconia (ZS) showed the lowest retention strength (231.1 ± 86.9).

CONCLUSION

CAD/CAM fabricated lithium disilicate hybrid-abutment-crown can be used instead of conventional crowns over implant abutment. Etchable ceramics are recommended as a material of choice for CAD/CAM fabricated hybrid-abutment-crowns instead of zirconia in terms of retention durability.

Effect of different surface treatments on the retention force of additively manufactured interim implant-supported crowns

PURPOSE

To compare the effect of different pre-cementation surface treatments and bonding protocols on the retention force of additively manufactured (AM) implant-supported interim crowns.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 50 AM interim crowns (Temporary CB resin) were cemented on implant abutments. Five groups (n = 10) were established based on the different surface pre-treatments performed in the intaglio surface of the specimens: no surface pre-treatment (Group C or control), air-abraded with 50-μm aluminium oxide particles (Group AP), air-abraded with 50-μm aluminium oxide particles followed by the application of silane (Group AMP), silane (Group MP), and air-abraded with 30 μm silica-coated aluminum oxide particles followed by the application of silane (Group CMP). Each specimen was cemented into an implant abutment using a composite resin cement (Rely X Unicem2). Afterward, the specimens underwent retention testing with a Universal Instron machine. Pull-off forces (N) and modes of failure were registered. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U tests with Bonferroni corrections for multiple tests (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

The median retention force values were 233.27 ±79.28 N for Group Control, 398.59 ±68.59 N for Group MP, 303.21 ±116.80 N for Group AMP, 349.31 ±167.73 N for Group CMP, and 219.85 ± 55.88 N for Group AP. The pull-off forces were significantly greater for Group MP, while the differences between the remaining groups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Group AP showed the lowest retention force values among all the groups. Failure modes after the pull-off testing were predominantly adhesive and substrate failure of the AM interim material.

CONCLUSIONS

The surface treatment of the intaglio AM crown tested significantly influenced the retention force values measured. Pre-treatment with an MDP-containing silane improved the retentive force values computed, whereas pre-treatment with 50-μm Al2 O3 air-particle abrasion alone is not recommended prior to cementation on a titanium-based implant abutment.

Influence of varying titanium base abutment heights on retention of zirconia restorations: An in vitro study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Implant manufacturers have introduced titanium base (Ti-Base) abutments with increased abutment heights, ostensibly, to increase the retention of the bonded restoration and to improve overall strength. However, evidence regarding the effects of increasing Ti-Base height on improving retention is lacking.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of different Ti-Base abutment heights on the retention of zirconia implant-supported crowns.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty Ti-Base abutments of the same diameter and heights of 3.5 mm (n=10), 4.5 mm (n=10), and 5.5 mm (n=10), were used for testing. Zirconia restorations were cemented onto the Ti-Base abutments with a resin cement after treatment with a 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate primer by a single operator using a positioning device. The zirconia-Ti-Base restorations were tightened to an implant analog embedded in an autopolymerizing resin block. The specimens were placed and tested in a universal testing machine for pull-out testing. Retention was measured by recording the force at load drop. Statistical analysis was performed using 1-way analysis of variance with the Tukey method for pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS

The abutment height had a significant effect on retention (P=.010). Ti-Base abutments of 4.5 and 5.5 mm had significantly greater retention than Ti-Base abutments of 3.5 mm (P=.020, P=.040, respectively). However, Ti-Base abutments of 4.5 and 5.5 mm in height were statistically similar (P=.890).

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in the height of Ti-Base abutments above the standard 3.5 mm height significantly improved the retention of the overlying restoration.

Effects of Surface Treatments and Cement Type on Shear Bond Strength between Titanium Alloy and All-Ceramic Materials

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of surface treatments and resin cement on the adhesion of ceramic and ceramic-like materials to titanium. A total of 40 specimens (5 mm diameter) of each material (lithium disilicate glass ceramic (LDGC-IPS e.maxCAD), lithium silicate glass ceramic (LSGC-VITA Suprinity) and a polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN-Vita Enamic)) were fabricated using CAD/CAM technologies. In total, 120 titanium (Ti) specimens were divided into 12 groups, and half of the titanium specimens were tribochemically coated using CoJet. The titanium and all-ceramic specimens were cemented using either Self-curing adhesive cement (SCAC-Panavia 21) or a Self-curing luting composite (SCLC-Multilink Hybrid Abutment). After 5000 cycles of thermal aging, the shear bond strength (SBS) test was conducted using a universal testing machine. The failure modes of the specimens were analyzed using stereomicroscopy, and additionally, the representative specimens were observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. ANOVA was used for the statistical analysis (p < 0.05). The post-hoc Duncan test was used to determine significant differences between the groups. The mean SBS values (mean ± STD) ranged from 15 ± 2 MPa to 29 ± 6 MPa. Significantly higher SBS values were acquired when the titanium surface was tribochemically coated (p < 0.05). The SCLC showed higher SBS values compared to the SCAC. While the LDGC showed the highest SBS values, the PICN presented the lowest. The tribochemical coating on the cementation surfaces of the titanium increased the SBS values. The specimens cemented with the SCLC showed higher SBS values than those with the SCAC. Additionally, the SCLC cement revealed a more significant increase in SBS values when used with the LDGC. The material used for restoration has a high impact on SBS than those of the cement and surface conditioning.

Retention of zirconia crowns to titanium bases with straight versus angled screw access channels: an invitro study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of abutments with angled screw access channel on the retention of zirconia crowns.

METHODS

Seven implant replicas were inserted in epoxy resin blocks. Fourteen zirconia crowns for central incisor tooth were digitally fabricated and cemented to titanium bases (Ti-bases) with resin cement. Titanium bases were categorized into 2 groups (n = 7). Control group (Group STA) included straight screw access channel abutments. Study group (Group ASC) included angled screw access channel abutments. Following aging (5 °C-55 °C, 60 s; 250,000 cycles, 100 N, 1.67 Hz), the pull-off forces (N) were recorded by using retention test (1 mm/min). Types of failure were defined as (Type 1; Adhesive failure when luting agent predominantly remained on the Ti-base surface (> 90%); Type 2; Cohesive failure when luting agent remained on both Ti-base and crown surfaces; and Type 3; Adhesive failure when luting agent predominantly remained on the crown (> 90%). Statistical analysis was conducted by using (IBM SPSS version 28). Normality was checked by using Shapiro Wilk test and Q-Q plots. Independent t-test was then used to analogize the groups.

RESULTS

Mean ± standard deviation of retention force records ranged from 1731.57 (63.68) N (group STA) to 1032.29 (89.82) N (group ASC), and there was a statistically significant variation between the 2 groups (P < .05). Failure modes were Type 2 for group STA and Type 3 for group ASC.

CONCLUSIONS

The retention of zirconia crowns to abutments with a straight screw access channel is significantly higher than abutments with angled screw access channel.

Influence of cold atmospheric-pressure-plasma in combination with different pretreatment methods on the pull-off tensile load in two-piece abutment-crowns: an in-vitro study

BACKGROUND

In implant prosthetic dentistry, the adhesive connection of individualized ceramic crowns and prefabricated titanium bases leads to several benefits. However, the durability of the bonding could be a weak point and especially depends on sufficient surface pretreatment. Cold atmospheric-pressure plasma (CAP) is a pretreatment method that should improve the surface properties without physical damage. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of CAP treatment on pull-off tensile load in two-piece abutment crowns.

METHODS

Eighty zirconia crowns and titanium bases were divided into eight groups (n = 10) according to their surface pretreatment prior to cementation with Panavia V5: no treatment (A); sandblasting (B); 10-MDP primer (C); sandblasting and primer (D); CAP (AP); sandblasting and CAP (BP); CAP and primer (CP); sandblasting, CAP and primer (DP). The specimens were thermocycled (5°/55°, 5000 cycles), and then the pull-off tensile load (TL) was measured. Statistical analyses were performed using three-way ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc and Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS

The results showed that the TL was highest in group D (p < 0.0001). Some combinations of different treatments led to effects that were greater than the sum of the individual effects. These effects were modified by interactions. Only in combination with primer, CAP treatment had a small but positive significant effect (group CP vs. C and CP vs. AP, p < 0.0001) which however did not come close to the strong interaction effect that resulted from the combination of sandblasting and primer.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, CAP treatment cannot be recommended in this specific field of indication due to its unreliable influence on TL in combination with other pretreatment methods.

Microscopic Inspection of the Adhesive Interface of Composite Onlays after Cementation on Low Loading: An In Vitro Study

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the layer thickness and microstructure of traditional resin-matrix cements and flowable resin-matrix composites at dentin and enamel to composite onlay interfaces after cementation on low loading magnitude. Materials and Methods: Twenty teeth were prepared and conditioned with an adhesive system for restoration with resin-matrix composite onlays manufactured by CAD-CAM. On cementation, tooth-to-onlay assemblies were distributed into four groups, including two traditional resin-matrix cements (groups M and B), one flowable resin-matrix composite (group G), and one thermally induced flowable composite (group V). After the cementation procedure, assemblies were cross-sectioned for inspection by optical microscopy at different magnification up to ×1000. Results: The layer thickness of resin-matrix cementation showed the highest mean values at around 405 µm for a traditional resin-matrix cement (group B). The thermally induced flowable resin-matrix composites showed the lowest layer thickness values. The resin-matrix layer thickness revealed statistical differences between traditional resin cement (groups M and B) and flowable resin-matrix composites (groups V and G) (p < 0.05). However, the groups of flowable resin-matrix composites did not reveal statistical differences (p < 0.05). The thickness of the adhesive system layer at around 7 µm and 12 µm was lower at the interfaces with flowable resin-matrix composites when compared to the adhesive layer at resin-matrix cements, which ranged from 12 µm up to 40 µm. Conclusions: The flowable resin-matrix composites showed adequate flowing even though the loading on cementation was performed at low magnitude. Nevertheless, significant variation in thickness of the cementation layer was noticed for flowable resin-matrix composites and traditional resin-matrix cements that can occur in chair-side procedures due to the clinical sensitivity and differences in rheological properties of the materials.

Evaluation of debonding force of screw-retained lithium disilicate implant-supported crowns cemented to abutments of different designs and surface treatments

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Straight preparable abutments provide an alternative to titanium bases (Ti-bases) for single-unit screw-retained implant-supported restorations. However, the debonding force between crowns with a screw access channel cemented to preparable abutments and Ti-bases of different designs and surface treatments is unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the debonding force of screw-retained lithium disilicate implant-supported crowns cemented to straight preparable abutments and Ti-bases of different designs and surface treatments.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty laboratory implant analogs (Straumann Bone Level) were embedded into epoxy resin blocks that were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10 each) according to the abutment type used: CEREC group, Variobase group, airborne-particle abraded Variobase group, and airborne-particle abraded straight preparable abutment group. All specimens were restored with lithium disilicate crowns and cemented with resin cement to the corresponding abutments. They were thermocycled (from 5 to 55 °C for 2000 cycles) followed by cyclic loading (120 000 cycles). The tensile forces required to debond the crowns from the corresponding abutments were measured (N) by using a universal testing machine. The Shapiro-Wilk test of normality was used. Comparison between the study groups was done with 1-way ANOVA (α=.05).

RESULTS

Tensile debonding force values were significantly different according to the type of abutment used (P<.05). The highest retentive force value was recorded in the straight preparable abutment group (928.1 ±222.2 N) followed by the airborne-particle abraded Variobase group (852.6 ±164.6 N), and the CEREC group (498.8 ±136.6 N); the lowest value was reported in the Variobase group (158.6 ±85.2 N).

CONCLUSIONS

The retention of screw-retained lithium disilicate implant-supported crowns cemented to airborne-particle abraded straight preparable abutments is significantly higher than to non-surface treated Ti-bases and similar to airborne-particle abraded ones. Abrading abutments with 50-mm Al2O3 significantly increased the debonding force of the lithium disilicate crowns.

Graphene-Doped Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) as a New Restorative Material in Implant-Prosthetics: In Vitro Analysis of Resistance to Mechanical Fatigue

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Provisional prostheses in restorations over several implants with immediate loading in completely edentulous patients increase the risk of frequent structural fractures. An analysis was performed of the resistance to fracture of prosthetic structures with cantilevers using graphene-doped polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resins and CAD-CAM technology.

METHODS

A master model was produced with four implants measuring 4 mm in diameter and spaced 3 mm apart, over which 44 specimens representing three-unit fixed partial prostheses with a cantilever measuring 11 mm were placed. These structures were cemented over titanium abutments using dual cure resin cement. Twenty-two of the 44 units were manufactured from machined PMMA discs, and 22 were manufactured from PMMA doped with graphene oxide nanoparticles (PMMA-G). All of the samples were tested in a chewing simulator with a load of 80 N until fracture or 240,000 load applications.

RESULTS

The mean number of load applications required for temporary restoration until the fracture was 155,455 in the PMMA-G group versus 51,136 in the PMMA group.

CONCLUSIONS

Resistance to fracture under cyclic loading was three times greater in the PMMA-G group than in the PMMA group.

A multicenter randomized controlled clinical pilot study of buccally micro-veneered lithium-disilicate and zirconia crowns supported by titanium base abutments: 1-year outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To investigate survival rates, technical and biologic outcomes of buccally micro-veneered all-ceramic single implant crowns.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty subjects randomly received immediately or early placed implants. Crowns out of lithium-disilicate (n = 30) and zirconia-ceramic (n = 30) were bonded to titanium-base-abutments. Restorations were inspected at baseline (BL) and during follow-up visits (6, 12 months). Technical and biologic parameters were recorded. Data were analysed descriptively. Differences between groups were tested with Student's t-test. Paired T-test was used when comparing data from the same implant or tooth over time. Linear model repeated measures were used to test differences between materials over time. Differences in counts were evaluated using Pearson Chi-square test. The level of significance was at p < .05.

RESULTS

After a mean observation time of 13.2 ± 2.4 months, 54 restorations were re-examined. The implant survival rate was 98.3%, and the restoration survival rate was 100%. One early implant failure occurred. Two minor chippings occurred in lithium-disilicate restorations. No chippings or fractures occurred in any zirconia restorations at 1 year (0%). The technical complication rate was 3.7%, with 7.7% complications among the lithium-disilicate restorations and no differences between the two materials (p = .558). At 1-year follow-up, mean Bleeding on Probing (BOP) was higher at implants (0.27 ± 0.3) than adjacent teeth (0.17 ± 0.18) (p = .046) with no differences between materials (p = .36). Differences in pocket probing depth (PPD) between implants and adjacent teeth were significant (p < .01). Jemt Index improved significantly from BL to 1-y-follow-up (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary results were good, suggesting that the ceramic type does not impact technical and biologic parameters.

Abutment on Titanium-Base Hybrid Implant: A Literature Review

An increase in the use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technologies challenges the conventional prosthetic fabrication procedures that are practical and centered on a digital workflow for the patient, especially for dental implants. Increasing workflow of digital restoration work, considering computer-used CAM for restoration technology systems and also fast/CAM for building restoration technology; fast/CAD, also known as abut-Base, has increased interest. Studies on adaptation of different restorative materials, on titanium (Ti)-base abutments, traction, and transformed cycling have become relevant. The objective of this work was to research, through literature studies, on restoration-type abutments. A total of 24 articles were found after searching the following terms in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Embase databases: “ti-base AND abutment.” Twenty-one manuscripts selected from the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After an analysis of these articles, it was concluded that the Ti-base abutment and components from the same manufacturer as the Implant should be used preferably; milled monolithic crowns designed to adapt to the Ti-base the hybrid abutment-crown assembly does not affect torque maintenance after thermal aging; the saliva and cleaning protocol of the Ti-base bonding surfaces can influence the operations of the Ti-base crowns; Ti-base and Crown surface treatment is recommended for better applicability and stability results, and the superiority of resin-based cements compared with other types of cements.

Scanning Electron Microscopy Analyses of Dental Implant Abutments Debonded from Monolithic Zirconia Restorations Using Heat Treatment: An In Vitro Study

Aim: The aim of this in vitro study is to present a debonding protocol developed to remove a screw-retained, monolithic, zirconia restoration from its titanium-base abutment, and to microscopically evaluate the abutment integrity at both the prosthetic and connection levels. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 samples were tested. Each sample consisted of a monolithic zirconia restoration bonded on a titanium link abutment. Five different shapes were designed and fabricated. Randomly, one-third of the Ti-link abutments were subjected to an anodizing process. Then, all the zirconia samples were bonded to the Ti-link abutments according to a pre-established protocol. Forty-eight hours later, the samples were debonded according to the experimental protocol. The outcomes were evaluated by a visual inspection with an optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and chemical composition analysis. Results: Thirty samples were collected and visually analyzed. Seven samples were randomly evaluated via scanning electron microscopy. In all the examinations, no relevant changes were reported. Chemical composition analysis also relieved no changes in the chemical structure of the titanium. Conclusions: The titanium-base abutments do not alter the structure and properties of the material, not creating phase changes or the birth of oxides such as to induce fragility. Further clinical studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these preliminary results.

The Effect of a 10-MDP-Based Dentin Adhesive as Alternative for Bonding to Implant Abutment Materials

Bonding to different dental restorative materials is challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a 10-MDP-based dentin adhesive on the shear bond strength (SBS) of self-adhesive resin cement (RC) to implant abutment materials. One hundred and twenty specimens were obtained from zirconia (ZO), cobalt-chromium alloy (CoCr), and commercially pure titanium (Ti), which were treated as follows (n = 10): control group-non-treated (CG), 10-MDP-based dentin adhesive (SB), light-cured SB (SB-LC), and zirconia primer (ZP). Blocks of RC were buildup and, after 24 h, were tested for bond strength. Data of SBS (MPa) were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). There was no difference in SBS among materials for CG and ZP, higher SBS were recorded for Ti SB and Ti SB-LC compared to ZO upon the same surface treatments. For the comparisons among treatments, SB-LC showed the highest SBS for CoCr. For ZO and Ti, higher SBS were recorded with SB and SB-LC. No cohesive failures were observed. It was concluded that the surface treatment with 10-MDP-based materials increased the bond strength of the resin cement to abutment materials, which showed to be material dependent.

Bending moment of implants restored with CAD/CAM polymer-based restoration materials with or without a titanium base before and after artificial aging

OBJECTIVES

To test and compare two types of implant systems restored with four monolithic polymer-based materials with regard to their bending moments (BM) before and after aging.

METHODS

A total of 192 tissue-level implants (TRI Dental Implants) differing in the presence (TiB, Octa line, n = 96) or absence (NTiB, Matrix line, n = 96) of a titanium base were restored with mandibular right first molar crowns manufactured from composite (CC), polymer-infiltrated ceramic (VE), PMMA (PM) and a 3D printed resin (ND) (n = 24). Half of the specimens (n = 12) were loaded for 1,200,000 cycles (50 N, 1.3 Hz, TC: 5/55 °C, 6000×) and examined for failures. Fracture load was measured according to ISO standard 14801, BM was calculated, and fracture types were examined. Data were analyzed using parametric statistics (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

No failures were observed after 600,000 cycles. After 1,200,000 cycles, wear traces were recorded in all groups except PM, VE and CC on TiB implants. In group CC on NTiB implants, three specimens were rated zero in BM testing as they showed fracture of the screw. Regarding BM, TiB implants exhibited higher values than NTiB implants with aged CC (p = 0.023), aged PM (p < 0.001), initial PM (p = 0.011) and initial VE (p < 0.001). No differences occurred among the implant types with initial CC, initial ND, aged ND and aged VE. With regard to initial BM values, NTiB implants showed higher values for ND and CC compared with PM and VE (p < 0.001). No differences in initial BM values were found for the tested materials on TiB implants (p > 0.116). When aged, restoration material had no impact on the BM values of NTiB implants (p ≥ 0.233). Aged TiB implants showed higher values in combination with CC than with ND (p = 0.001). PM and VE showed similar values as ND and CC. Artificial aging led to a decrease of BM within PM, CC and ND on NTiB implants and ND on TiB implants. The majority of failures after testing were characterized by crown fractures in two to four pieces. Fractures in more pieces with smaller fragments occurred primarily for ND.

SIGNIFICANCE

The use of NTiB implants with the polymer-based materials tested can only be recommended for clinical use as interim prostheses. CC seems to show a positive effect on the BM. Clinical research investigating the in vivo behavior is necessary to confirm these findings.

The Evaluation of Microshear Bond Strength of Resin Cements to Titanium Using Different Surface Treatment Methods: An In Vitro Study

This study attempted to investigate the effect of sandblasting and H2O2 treatments on the microshear bond strength of two commercially available resin cements. A total of 90 cube-shaped specimens of commercially pure titanium (cp-Ti) were divided into two groups of Panavia and MHA cements (n = 45). Samples of the Panavia group were randomly divided into three subgroups of 15 samples, including subgroups (no treatment, aluminum oxide sandblasting, and immersion in 35% hydrogen peroxide solution with halogen light). Once the treatment was completed, Panavia V5 was applied on the cp-Ti surface by a Tygon tube. The 45 specimens of the MHA cement group were randomly divided into three subgroups (n = 15) similarly to the Panavia group. Then, the MHA was applied on the surface of cp-Ti. A universal testing machine was used to measure and examine the microshear bond strength of cement to cp-Ti subsequent to the step of thermocycling. According to results, in the Panavia cement group, the SBS of sandblasting treatment was significantly higher than that of the H2O2 treatment subgroup (p < 0.05), which displayed a significantly higher SBS than that of the no-treatment subgroup (p < 0.001). In regard to the MHA group, the SBS of the H2O2 treatment subgroup was significantly lower than that of the sandblasting treatment subgroup (p < 0.001), whereas there were no significant differences between the SBS of the no treatment and H2O2 treatment subgroups (p = 0.35). Considering the comparison between Panavia and MHA cases, there were no significant differences observed among the no-treatment subgroups (p = 0.34), as well as the sandblasting treatment subgroups (p = 0.67), while the SBS of the H2O2 treatment subgroup in Panavia cement was higher than that of the H2O2 subgroup in MHA cement (p < 0.001). In conclusion, in both Panavia V5 and MHA cements, sandblasting treatment could improve the bond strength between the titanium surface. However, H2O2 treatment proved to be capable of enhancing the bond strength of Panavia V5 cement without causing any positive effects on the bond strength of MHA cement.

Chairside CAD/CAM Materials: Current Trends of Clinical Uses

Simple Summary

The interest in chairside Computer-aided design/computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM) restorations has increased the diversity of the restorative material. The promise of accurate, esthetic restorations delivered rapidly to the patient has manly benefits for clinicians in the light of minimally invasive dentistry dictates. New materials have been developed by the industry in order to offer ceramic, composite, and hybrid materials with optimized properties, suitable mechanical and aesthetic features. However, this comes at the expense of making the application more complicated. This article is aimed at providing an overview regarding the main advantages and disadvantages of the CAD/CAM chairside materials.

Abstract

Restorative materials are experiencing an extensive upgrade thanks to the use of chairside Computer-aided design/computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM) restorations. Therefore, due to the variety offered in the market, choosing the best material could be puzzling for the practitioner. The clinical outcome of the restoration is influenced mainly by the material and its handling than by the fabrication process (i.e., CAD/CAM). Information on the restorative materials performances can be difficult to gather and compare. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of chairside CAD/CAM materials, their classification, and clinically relevant aspects that enable the reader to select the most appropriate material for predictable success.

Bond strength of zirconia- or polymer-based copings cemented on implant-supported titanium bases - an in vitro study

Purpose

To evaluate the bond strength between polymer-based copings and zirconia copings as positive control, cemented on implant-supported titanium bases with different adhesive cement systems. Moreover, to evaluate if airborne-particle abrasion of polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA) would enhance the bond strength.

Methods

Four groups of different materials were used to fabricate the copings, 30 in each group: airborne-particle abraded milled zirconia (TAZirconia, control group), milled PMMA (TPMMA), airborne-particle abraded milled PMMA (TAPMMA) and 3 D-printed micro filled hybrid resin (TAMFH). Each group of copings was cemented on titanium bases by three different adhesive cement systems, 10 each: Multilink Hybrid Abutment, Panavia V5, RelyX Ultimate. The specimens were stored dry at room temperature for 24 h, subjected to thermocycling for 5000 cycles followed by evaluating the bond strength by tensile strength test.

Results

TPMMA and TAPMMA cemented with Multilink Hybrid Abutment showed statistically significant lower bond strength in comparison to TAZirconia and TAMFH. No difference was observed between the latter two. TPMMA, TAPMMA and TAMFH had a statistically significant lower bond strength compared to the control group when cemented with Panavia V5. TPMMA and TAPMMA cemented with Rely X Ultimate showed statistically significant lower bond strength in comparison to the control group.

Conclusion

Almost all experimental groups, except 3 D-printed MFH, performed inferior than the positive control group where the highest bond strength was reported for the cementation of zirconia copings cemented with Panavia V5 or Rely X Ultimate. Airborne-particle abrasion did not improve the bond strength of the PMMA, except when Multilink Hybrid Abutment was used.

Retention of different temporary cements tested on zirconia crowns and titanium abutments in vitro

Purpose

The aim of the present study was to examine the retention force of monolithic zirconia copings cemented with various temporary cements on implant abutments in vitro.

Methods

Sixty exercise implants with pre-screwed implant abutments were embedded in resin. Subsequently, 60 CAD/CAM manufactured zirconia copings were divided into three main groups [Harvard Implant Semi-permanent (HAV), implantlink semi Forte (IMP), Temp Bond NE (TBNE)]. The zirconia copings were cemented on the implant abutments and loaded with 35 N. Specimens were stored in distilled water (37 °C) for 24 h. Half of the test specimens of each group were subjected to a thermocycling (TC) process. Retention force was measured in a universal testing machine. Using magnifying glasses, the fracture mode was determined. Statistical analysis was performed applying the Kruskal-Wallis test, the post hoc test according to Dunn-Bonferroni and a chi-square test of independence.

Results

Without TC, IMP showed the highest retention of the three temporary luting agents (100.5 ± 39.14 N). The measured retention forces of IMP were higher than those of HAV (45.78 ± 15.66 N) and TBNE (61.16 ± 20.19 N). After TC, retention was reduced. IMP showed the greatest retentive strength (21.69 ± 13.61 N, three fail outs). HAV and TBNE showed pull-off forces of similar magnitude (17.38 ± 12.77 N and 16.97 ± 12.36 N, two fail outs). The fracture mode analysis showed different results regarding the tested cements before and after TC (facture type before/after TC): IMP (III+II/III), HAV (I/II) and TBNE (III/III). There were clear differences of the fracture modes regarding the examination before and after TC.

Conclusions

Within the limits of this study, IMP showed the highest pull-off forces under the chosen test conditions. All three temporary luting agents showed lower retention forces after TC. Retention values in the individual cement classes were very heterogeneous. Easy cement removal in the crown lumen favours the dominance of adhesive cement fractures on the abutment and adhesive/cohesive cement fractures on the abutment with HAV appears advantageous in case of recementation of the superstructure.

Retention Forces of Monolithic CAD/CAM Crowns Adhesively Cemented to Titanium Base Abutments-Effect of Saliva Contamination Followed by Cleaning of the Titanium Bond Surface

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of saliva contamination and the cleaning of the bond surface of titanium base (ti-base) abutments on the bonding stability and retention force values. The bond surface of the ti-base abutments was treated with airborne-particle abrasion. After contamination, the ti-base abutments underwent different cleaning protocols: water spray (H2O); alcohol (ALC); suspension of zirconium particles (SZP); reapplied airborne-particle abrasion (APA); and a control condition without contamination and cleaning (CTR). All lithium disilicate crowns were bonded to the ti-base abutments using a primer and a self-curing composite. Bonded specimens underwent thermo-mechanical aging. Bond failure analysis and pull-off testing were performed. Bond failure occurred more frequently in groups H2O, ALC, SZP, and APA (p < 0.05). Significant differences in retention force values were only found between CTR and ALC (p < 0.05). Specimens which did not show bond failure after ageing had higher retention force values than the specimens that showed bond failure (p < 0.05). Saliva contamination with cleaning can degrade the bonding properties to titanium. For the retention force values, only the protocol with alcohol after contamination could not restore the values.

Mechanical stability and technical outcomes of monolithic CAD/CAM fabricated abutment-crowns supported by titanium bases: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate mechanical stability (survival and complication rates) and bending moments of different all-ceramic monolithic restorations bonded to titanium bases (hybrid abutment-crowns) or to customized titanium abutments compared to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns (PFM) after thermo-mechanical aging.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty conical connection implants (4.3 mm-diameter) were divided in five groups (n = 12): PFM using gold abutment (GAbut-PFM), lithium disilicate crown bonded to customized titanium abutment (TAbut+LDS), lithium disilicate abutment-crown bonded to titanium base (TiBase+LDS), zirconia abutment-crown bonded to titanium base (TiBase+ZR), polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network (PICN) abutment-crown bonded to titanium base (TiBase+PICN). Simultaneous thermocycling (5°-55°C) and chewing simulation (1,200,000-cycles, 49 N, 1.67 Hz) were applied. Catastrophic and non-catastrophic events were evaluated under light microscope, and survival and complication rates were calculated. Specimens that survived aging were loaded until failure and bending moments were calculated.

RESULTS

Survival rates after aging were 100% (TAbut+LDS, TiBase+LDS), 91.7% (GA-PFM), 66.7% (TiBase+ZR) and 58.3% (TiBase+PICN) and differed among the groups (p = .006). Non-catastrophic events as screw loosening (GA-PFM) and loss of retention or micro-/macro-movement (TiBase groups) were observed. Complication rates varied among the groups (p < .001). TiBase+PICN had lower bending moment than all the other groups (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Hybrid abutment-crowns made of lithium disilicate can be an alternative to PFM-based restorations, although concerns regarding the bonded interface between the titanium base and abutment-crown can be raised. PICN and zirconia may not be recommended due to its inferior mechanical and bonding outcomes, respectively. Titanium customized abutment with bonded lithium disilicate crown appears to be the most stable combination.