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.

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.

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.

Retention and Marginal Integrity of CAD/CAM Fabricated Crowns Adhesively Cemented to Titanium Base Abutments-Influence of Bonding System and Restorative Material

PURPOSE

To assess the influence of the bonding system and restorative material on the marginal integrity and pull-off forces of monolithic all-ceramic crowns bonded to titanium base (ti-base) abutments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 108 ti-bases were sandblasted and divided into nine experimental groups (n = 12) according to the combination of crown material (polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network [PI], lithium-disilicate [LD], and zirconia [ZI]) and bonding system (Multilink Hybrid-Abutment [MH], Panavia V5 [PV], RelyX Ul5mate [RU]) with the respective primers. After bonding the crowns to the ti-base abutments, the restorations were screw-retained on implants and thermomechanically aged (1,200,000 cycles, 49 N, 1.67 Hz, 5 to 55°C). Marginal integrity and bonding failures were evaluated under a light microscope, and pull-off forces (N) were calculated. Chi-square tests for marginal integrity as well as one-way and two-way ANOVA statistical tests for pull-off forces were applied (a = .05).

RESULTS

PI presented higher marginal integrity than LD (P = .023). Bonding system PV revealed higher marginal integrity than MH (P =.005) and RU (P =.029). Differences in pull-off forces were found between restorative material and resin cements (P < .001), with the highest values for ZI + RU (598 ± 192 N), PI + PV (545 ± 114 N), LD + MH (532 ± 116 N), and PI + RU (528 ± 81 N). Specimens with marginal integrity revealed higher pull-off forces than those with alteration (P = .006). Specimens presenting bonding failures (micromovements) showed lower pull-off forces than those without bonding failures (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The tested CAD/CAM materials show favorable bonding performances with different bonding systems, nevertheless for each restorative material a specific bonding system has to be recommended. Int J Prosthodont 2023;36:e88-e102.

Influence of Implant Scanbody Material and Intraoral Scanner on the Accuracy of Complete-Arch Digital Implant Impressions

PURPOSE

To evaluate the accuracy of complete-arch digital implant impressions using different intraoral scan body (ISB) materials and intraoral scanners (IOSs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mandibular dental cast of an edentulous patient with six tissue-level dental implants was used as master cast. Two types of ISBs, polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) and plasma-coated medical titanium, were used with five IOSs: TRIOS 4 (T4), Virtuo Vivo (VV), Medit i700 (Mi700), iTero5D (i5D), and Primescan (PS). To assess accuracy, digital impressions (n=10) with each IOS and ISB were compared to two reference models obtained by digitizing the master cast with each ISB type using a desktop scanner (IScan4D LS3i) and importing the scan data into metrology software (Geomagic Control X). Root-mean-square (RMS) error was employed to evaluate overall deviation values (trueness), while precision was determined using the standard deviation (SD) of RMS values. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used, followed by the pairwise comparison method with Bonferroni correction (α=.05).

RESULTS

An interaction between ISB material and IOS was found (P=0.001). Plasma-coated medical titanium ISBs demonstrated significantly higher trueness and precision compared to PEEK ISBs with T4 (P=0.001), Mi700 (P=0.001; P=0.004), and i5D (P=0.001). Conversely, VV exhibited higher trueness and precision values with PEEK ISBs (P=0.005; P=0.003). PS provided the highest trueness and precision regardless of the ISB material (P=0.912). T4 showed the lowest accuracy for PEEK ISBs, and VV for plasma-coated medical titanium ISBs.

CONCLUSION

Except for PS, all IOSs showed significant differences between ISB materials. PS demonstrated the highest accuracy with both ISB materials, whereas T4 had the lowest accuracy for PEEK ISBs, and VV showed the lowest accuracy for plasma-coated medical titanium ISBs.

Group 2 ITI Consensus Report: Technological developments in implant prosthetics

OBJECTIVES

Group-2 reviewed the scientific evidence in the field of «Technology». Focused research questions were: (1) additive versus subtractive manufacturing of implant restorations; (2) survival, complications, and esthetics comparing prefabricated versus customized abutments; and (3) survival of posterior implant-supported multi-unit fixed dental prostheses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature was systematically screened, and 67 publications could be critically reviewed following PRISMA guidelines, resulting in three systematic reviews. Consensus statements were presented to the plenary where after modification, those were accepted.

RESULTS

Additively fabricated implant restorations of zirconia and polymers were investigated for marginal/internal adaptation and mechanical properties without clear results in favor of one technology or material. Titanium base abutments for screw-retained implant single crowns compared to customized abutments did not show significant differences concerning 1-year survival. PFM, veneered and monolithic zirconia implant-supported multi-unit posterior fixed dental prostheses demonstrated similar high 3-year survival rates, whereas veneered restorations exhibited the highest annual ceramic fracture and chipping rates.

CONCLUSIONS

For interim tooth-colored implant single crowns both additive and subtractive manufacturing are viable techniques. The clinical performance of additively produced restorations remains to be investigated. Implant single crowns on titanium base abutments show similar clinical performance compared to other type of abutments; however, long-term clinical data from RCTs are needed. The abutment selection should be considered already during the planning phase. Digital planning facilitates 3D visualization of the prosthetic design including abutment selection. In the posterior area, monolithic zirconia is recommended as the material of choice for multi-unit implant restorations to reduce technical complications.

Effect of splinting scan bodies on the trueness of complete-arch digital implant scans with 5 different intraoral scanners

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The absence of fixed reference points can affect the trueness of complete-arch intraoral digital implant scans. The effect of splinting intraoral scan bodies (ISBs) or the inclusion of artificial landmarks (AL) on the trueness of complete-arch digital implant scans is still unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of splinting ISBs or the inclusion of AL on the trueness of complete-arch digital implant scans with 5 intraoral scanners (IOSs).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Six tissue-level dental implants (Straumann Tissue Level) were placed in an edentulous patient, and the correspondent definitive cast was digitized with a desktop scanner (IScan4D LS3i) to obtain the reference digital cast. Digital scans (n=10) were performed with 5 IOSs: TRIOS 4, Virtuo Vivo, Medit i700, iTero Element 5D, and Cerec Primescan. Three different scanning techniques were evaluated: conventional (cIOSs), splinted (sIOSs), and AL (AL-IOSs). The scan data obtained were imported into a metrology software program and superimposed to the reference digital cast by using a best-fit algorithm. The overall deviations of the positions of the ISBs were evaluated by using the root-mean-square (RMS) error (α=.05).

RESULTS

The mean ±standard deviation trueness values for the cIOSs, sIOSs, and AL-IOSs groups were 48 ±8 µm, 53 ±7 µm, and 49 ±11 µm, respectively, with no statistically significant differences (P=.06). Significant differences were found for the IOSs used with each technique (P<.001). Primescan (27 ±4 µm cIOSs; 28 ±3 µm sIOSs; 31 ±3 µm AL-IOSs) showed significantly higher trueness than iTero 5D (47 ±5 µm cIOSs; 47 ±4 µm sIOSs; 50 ±6 µm AL-IOSs) (P=.002) and TRIOS 4 (93 ±18 µm cIOSs; 76 ±18 µm sIOSs; 107 ±13 µm AL-IOSs) (P=.001) for all techniques. In addition, no significant differences were found between the techniques by using iTero 5D or Primescan (P=.348 and P=.059, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The cIOSs, sIOSs, and AL-IOSs techniques showed similar trueness. The IOS used influenced the trueness of complete-arch digital implant scans.

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.

The influence of finishing lines and margin location on enamel and dentin removal for indirect partial restorations: A micro-CT quantitative evaluation

OBJECTIVES

This in vitro research aimed to quantitatively evaluate the enamel and dentin tissue removal and the residual adhesion surface area (RAS) after different margin designs and locations for indirect partial restorations (IPR).

METHODS

A human molar was scanned using a Micro-CT and the STL file obtained was used to 3D-print 50 resin-tooth replicas. IPR standardized preparations were performed. The specimens were randomly assigned to 5 groups (n = 10), according to preparation and margin location to the dental equator (DE): 1) Rounded shoulder above the DE (SA); 2) Hollow chamfer above the DE (CA); 3) Butt joint above the DE (BJ); 4) Rounded shoulder below the DE (SB); 5) Chamfer below the DE (CB). Then, the tooth replicas were scanned and each STL file was aligned and superimposed to the original STL model file. Data of enamel and dentin volume removal and RAS were assessed and statistically analyzed (one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests for the two dental substrates respectively). Significance was set at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Differences in dental tissue reductions were related to the margin location. Above the equator, SA, CA, and BJ performed comparably (p>0.05). Below the equator, CB was significantly more conservative in enamel reduction than SB (p<0.05) and showed the highest enamel adhesive surface exposure among the tested preparations (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

When the preparation margin is placed above DE, BJ determines a greater exposure of dentin, reducing the adhesive surface in enamel. Below DE, SB seems to be more aggressive in terms of tissue removal compared to CB.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The results of this in vitro study suggest that in teeth requiring partial restoration with the margin below the dental equator, a chamfer preparation would be more conservative than a shoulder preparation. When above the equator, preparations with flat designs would expose more dentine providing a worse substrate for adhesion.

Immediate Implant Placement in Conjunction with Acellular Dermal Matrix or Connective Tissue Graft: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Volumetric Study

Connective tissue grafts have become a standard for compensating horizontal volume loss in immediate implant placement. The use of new biomaterials like acellular matrices may avoid the need to harvest autogenous grafts, yielding less postoperative morbidity. This randomized comparative study evaluated the clinical outcomes following extraction and immediate implant placement in conjunction with anorganic bovine bone mineral (ABBM) and the use of a porcine acellular dermal matrix (ADM) vs an autogenous connective tissue graft (CTG) in the anterior maxilla. Twenty patients (11 men, 9 women) with a mean age of 48.9 years (range: 21 to 72 years) were included in the study and randomly assigned to either the test (ADM) or control (CTG) group. They underwent tooth extraction and immediate implant placement together with ABBM for socket grafting and either ADM or CTG for soft tissue augmentation. Twelve months after implant placement, the cases were evaluated clinically and volumetrically. All implants achieved osseointegration and were restored. The average horizontal change of the ridge dimension at 1 year postsurgery was -0.55 ± 0.32 mm for the ADM group and -0.60 ± 0.49 mm for the CTG group. Patients of the ADM group reported significantly less postoperative pain. Using xenografts for hard and soft tissue augmentation in conjunction with immediate implant placement showed no difference in the volume change in comparison to an autogenous soft tissue graft, and showed significantly less postoperative morbidity.

Influence of the Titanium Base Abutment Design on Monolithic Zirconia Multiple-Unit Implant Fixed Dental Prostheses: A Laboratory Study

PURPOSE

This in vitro study evaluated technical outcomes of monolithic zirconia implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (iFDPs) supported by different designs of titanium base abutments after aging and static load testing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty three-unit monolithic zirconia (yttrium oxide partially stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals; Y-TZP)iFDPs were produced and divided into four groups: group A-conical titanium base abutments for the prosthesis; group B-cylindrical titanium base abutments for the crown; group C-conical titanium base abutment for the prosthesis and cylindrical titanium base abutment for the crown; group D-cylindrical titanium base abutments for the prosthesis. The samples were subjected to an aging protocol and to continuous static loading until failure and analyzed visually and with specific software. The technical outcomes comprised the occurrence of debonding, screw loosening, deformation and fracture, abutment deformation and fracture, implant deformation and fracture, zirconia chipping and fracture, and bending moments. The Pearson chi-squared test (χ²) and Fischer exact test were used to compare the outcomes. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to evaluate data distribution of the bending moments. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for the analysis of parametric data distribution, and the Kruskal-Wallis test was used for nonparametric data distribution.

RESULTS

After aging, a higher percentage of debonding (P = .042) and micromovement (P = .034) was recorded in group C (P = .042). The conical titanium base abutments had a higher debonding (P = .049) and a higher macromovement rate (P = .05). The static load test showed higher bending moments in group D (P = .001) and lower bending moments in group A (P = .001). Debonding was highest in group C (P = .001) and lowest in group A (P = .002). Complete loss of retention rate was highest in group C (P = .001). The conical titanium base abutment had the highest debonding rate (P = .001) and complete loss of retention (P = .001). The micromovement rate was the highest for cylindrical titanium base abutments for the crown (P = .001). The lowest screw loosening, zirconia chipping, and fracture rate (P = .001) and the highest screw deformation (P = .004) were recorded in group A. The screw deformation rate was lowest in the cylindrical titanium base abutments for the crown (P = .008).

CONCLUSION

The mixed titanium base abutment design comprising one conical and one cylindrical abutment in Y-TZP iFDPs led to the highest debonding rate. The cylindrical titanium base abutment for the prosthesis provided a lower percentage of debonding and the highest load resistance.

In vitro and in vivo accuracy of full-arch digital implant impressions

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of the study was to compare the accuracy of full-arch digital implant impressions for fixed dental prosthesis under in vitro and in vivo conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight patients (five women and three men) with at least one edentulous arch and with 4-6 osseointegrated implants participated in this study. For each edentulous arch (n = 10), experimental screw-retained titanium bar with attached four scan bodies was fabricated. The bar containing four scan bodies was screw-retained intraorally on implants and scanned with Trios 3 intraoral scanner eight times (IOS group, in vivo). Then, the bar was attached to the master cast and scanned eight times again with the same intraoral scanner (MIOS group, in vitro). Finally, the bar with scan bodies was scanned 8 times with a laboratory scanner (reference). Precision and trueness were calculated for 3 distances and 3 angles between the scan bodies (1-2, 1-3, and 1-4) in IOS and MIOS groups.

RESULTS

Precision and trueness for the largest distance (1-4) were found to be 44 ± 18 µm and 32 ± 19 µm for the IOS group and 31 ± 16 µm and 30 ± 14 µm for MIOS group, respectively. Precision and trueness for the angle between the most distant scan bodies (1-4) were 0.22 ± 0.14° and 0.18 ± 0.10° for the IOS group and 0.16 ± 0.11° and 0.07 ± 0.05° for MIOS group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoral conditions moderately affected the precision and trueness of Trios 3 (3Shape) intraoral scanner. Results of in vitro accuracy studies cannot be directly transferred to the clinical field.

Fabrication, workflow and delivery of reconstruction: Summary and consensus statements of group 4. The 6th EAO Consensus Conference 2021

OBJECTIVES

To report assessments of four systematic reviews (SRs) on (i) clinical outcomes of all-ceramic implant-supported crowns (iSCs), (ii) production time, effectiveness, and costs of computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM), (iii) computer-assisted implant planning and surgery (CAIPS) time and costs, and (iv) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An author group consisting of experienced clinicians and content experts discussed and evaluated the SRs and formulated consensus on the main findings, statements, clinical recommendations, and need for future research.

RESULTS

All four SRs were conducted and reported according to PRISMA and detailed comprehensive search strategies in at least three bibliometric databases and hand searching. The search strategies were deemed reproducible. Variation was noted regarding language restrictions and inclusion of grey literature, but the search comprehensiveness appeared persuasive. The SRs included bias risk assessments of the primary studies, and their study methodology impacted the interpretations of the extracted data.

CONCLUSIONS

(i) There is limited evidence (49 NRCT) showing that veneered and monolithic all-ceramic iSCs have excellent outcomes observed up to 3 years. (ii) There is no evidence evaluating production time and effectiveness comparing subtractive and additive CAM of implant models, abutments and crowns. (iii) There is limited evidence (4 RCT) that CAIPS involves more time and costs when considering the entire workflow and for diagnostics, manufacturing, and insertion of the restoration. Time seems to be the decisive factor for higher costs. (iv) Patients´ comfort increase when optical compared to conventional impressions is used for fabricating iSCs and short-span FPDs (2 RCT, 5 NRCT).

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 of Restorations Supported by Titanium Base, Zirconia, and Polyetherketoneketone Abutments on One- and Two-Piece Zirconia Implants

PURPOSE

To evaluate survival, complication rates, and bending moments of one- and two-piece zirconia implants restored with different abutment materials and lithium disilicate crowns after aging, compared to titanium implants restored with titanium base-supported lithium disilicate crowns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty anterior crowns were either screwretained on two-piece titanium implants (C) and two-piece zirconia implants (T1, T2, T3) or cemented on one-piece zirconia implants (T4), resulting in 5 groups with 12 specimens each. For the screw-retained crowns, different abutment materials and implant connections were tested: titanium base with internal conical connection and horizontal joint component (C and T2), zirconia with internal hexagonal connection and horizontal joint component (T1), and polyetherketoneketone with internal hexagonal connection and horizontal joint component (T3). After artificial aging with thermocycling (5°C to 50°C) and chewing simulation (1,200,000 cycles, 49 N, 1.67 Hz), the surviving specimens were loaded until fracture, and the bending moments were calculated. Survival rates and respective differences during aging were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier log-rank test, while complication rates were compared with chi-square tests. Bending moment data were evaluated using the Kruskal-Wallis test (α = .05).

RESULTS

Survival rates after artificial aging ranged from 75% (T1) to 100% (C and T4) without significant differences between the groups (P > .05). Only 41.5% of the surviving specimens were free of complications, while the remaining presented screw-loosening, loss of retention of crowns, or cracks on the crown or implant level. The complication rates varied significantly among the groups (P < .05). The mean bending moments were 173.7 × 20.1 (C), 114.5 × 20.1 (T1), 171.1 × 46.1 (T2), 258.1 × 147.4 (T3), and 194.7 × 30.9 Ncm (T4), and group T1 exhibited significantly lower median bending moment values than the other groups (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The zirconia one- and two-piece implants presented high survival rates after aging, yet the number of technical complications was high. New prosthetic solutions, such as titanium bases or polyetherketoneketone abutments, may offer a comparable treatment option to restore two-piece zirconia implants.

Technical complication of a zirconia multiple-unit FDP supported by titanium base abutments - case report on a bonding failure and treatment alternative

Monolithic zirconia implant-supported restorations connected to titanium bases or titanium inserts are increasing in popularity due to their application in a full digital workflow. These prefabricated abutments are connected to the all-ceramic superstructure by adhesive cementation. Although limited clinical data on the outcomes of this type of restoration are available, a few laboratory studies have shown possible debonding issues. This case report presents a bonding failure of a fixed dental prosthesis supported by titanium bases after short clinical use. A treatment alternative is also proposed using the available digital dental technology.

Recommendations for Implant-Supported Full-Arch Rehabilitations in Edentulous Patients: The Oral Reconstruction Foundation Consensus Report

The tasks of Working Groups 1 to 6 at the 4th Consensus Meeting of the Oral Reconstruction Foundation were to elucidate clinical recommendations for implant-supported full-arch rehabilitations in edentulous patients. Six systematic/narrative reviews were prepared to address the following subtopics: (1) the influence of medical and geriatric factors on implant survival; (2) the prevalence of peri-implant diseases; (3) the influence of material selection, attachment type, interarch space, and opposing dentition; (4) different interventions for rehabilitation of the edentulous maxilla; (5) different interventions for rehabilitation of the edentulous mandible; and (6) treatment choice and decision-making in elderly patients. Consensus statements, clinical recommendations, and implications for future research were determined based on structured group discussions and plenary session approval.

The Influence of Patient-Related Factors and Material Selection on the Clinical Outcomes of Fixed and Removable Complete Implant Prostheses: An Overview on Systematic Reviews

PURPOSE

To analyze the influence of material selection, attachment type, interarch space, and opposing dentition on the prosthetic outcomes of fixed and removable implant complete prostheses (FCIPs and RCIPs, respectively).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review was designed as an overview of systematic reviews. An electronic database search was performed to identify scientific literature that reported on FCIPs and RCIPs. The last search was performed in January 2020. The final inclusion of systematic reviews for data extraction was decided by consensus of the authors. The included studies were analyzed qualitatively.

RESULTS

A total of 21 systematic reviews (FCIP: n = 11, RCIP: n = 10) out of 5,733 articles initially identified were included for data extraction and interpretation. High overall 5-year and 10-year prosthesis survival rates were shown for FCIPs and RCIPs (93.3% to 100% and 96.9% to 100%, respectively). Chipping/fracture of the veneering material was the most frequent technical complication for FCIPs, and attachment-related complications were the main technical problems for RCIPs. For FCIPs, the effect of prosthetic material was not significant on the technical complications nor the survival rates. No studies were identified that provided direct information on the effect of interarch space in FCIPs and RCIPs.

CONCLUSIONS

Both FCIPs and RCIPs obtained high overall survival rates, but technical complications cannot be avoided with either prosthesis type. No prosthetic material can be considered as the material of choice over another. Attachment type has no influence on the overall clinical outcomes of RCIPs. The influence of opposing dentition and the required prosthetic space were not investigated sufficiently.

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.

Three-Dimensional Evaluation of Peri-implant Soft Tissue When Tapered Implants Are Placed: Pilot Study with Implants Placed Immediately or Early Following Tooth Extraction

PURPOSE

This study examined a new 3D volumetric analysis method for the assessment of baseline-to-12-month changes of the soft tissue volume at early and immediately placed tapered implants after loading with ceramic single crowns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eligible patients with one incisor, canine, or premolar to be extracted were included. The patients were divided randomly into early-placement or immediate-placement groups. Tapered implants (BLT, Institut Straumann) were placed after the extractions. In the early-placement group, the implants were placed 8 weeks after extraction. In the immediate-placement group, the implants were placed immediately after the extraction. All implants healed transmucosally, and the final crowns were inserted after healing (baseline). Impressions were made at screening, baseline, and 12 months after crown insertion (Permadyne, 3M). The casts were scanned (Imetric 4D) and aligned, and a superimposed area of interest (AOI) (labial/buccal aspects) was defined to assess the volumetric changes (GOM Inspect). Specific software (3Matic, Materialise NV) was used for volumetric analysis. The vertical mucosal recession was measured at each time point. Repeated-measures one-way analysis of variance and the Tukey method were used for statistical analysis (SPSS 22, IBM).

RESULTS

Twenty tapered implants (16 regular and four narrow) were placed in 20 patients (12 men and 8 women) in the early-placement (EP; n = 10) and immediate-placement (IP; n = 10) groups, respectively. Threedimensional volumetric analysis revealed soft tissue volume loss in both groups of 10.0 ± 16.5 mm³ (EP) and 24.3 ± 21.3 mm³ (IP) between baseline and 12 months (P = .6). The analysis also revealed local differences in the changes, displaying both localized gain and loss in both groups.

CONCLUSION

With this novel 3D analysis method, true volumetric soft tissue differences, ie, both localized gain and loss, were specified between the treatment groups.

Temporary Implant-Supported Single Crowns Using Titanium Base Abutments: An In Vitro Study on Bonding Stability and Pull-out Forces

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of cementation protocols on the bonding interface stability and pull-out forces of temporary implant-supported crowns bonded on a titanium base abutment (TiB) or on a temporary titanium abutment (TiA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 60 implants were restored with PMMA-based CAD/CAM crowns. Five groups (n = 12) were created: Group 1 = TiB/SRc: crown conditioned with MMA-based liquid (SR Connect, Ivoclar Vivadent); Group 2 = TiB/50Al-MB: crown airborne particle-abraded with 50-μm Al₂O₃ and silanized (Monobond Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent); Group 3 = TiB/30SiOAl-SRc: crown airborne particle-abraded with 30-μm silica-coated Al₂O₃ (CoJet, 3M ESPE) and conditioned with MMA-based liquid (SR Connect); Group 4 = TiB/30SiOAl-MB: crown airborne particle-abraded with 30- μm silica-coated Al₂O₃ (CoJet) and silanized (Monobond Plus); and Group 5 = TiA/TA-PMMA: crown manually enlarged, activated, and rebased with PMMA resin (Telio Lab, Ivoclar Vivadent). Specimens in the TiB groups were cemented using a resin cement (Multilink Hybrid Abutment, Ivoclar Vivadent). After aging (120,000 cycles, 49 N, 1.67 Hz, 5°C to 55°C, 120 seconds), bonding interface failure was analyzed (50x). Pull-out forces (N) (0.5 mm/minute) and modes of failure were registered. Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze the data (α = .05).

RESULTS

Bonding failure after aging varied from 0% (Group 5) to 100% (Groups 1, 2, and 4) (P < .001). Mean pull-out force ranged between 53.1 N (Group 1) and 1,146.5 N (Group 5). The pull-off forces were significantly greater for Group 5 (P < .05), followed by Group 3 (P < .05), whereas the differences among the remaining groups were not significant (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

The cementation protocol had an effect on the bonding interface stability and pull-out forces of PMMA-based crowns bonded on a titanium base. Airborne particle abrasion of the crown internal surface and conditioning it with an MMA-based liquid may be recommended to improve retention of titanium base temporary restorations. Yet, for optimal outcomes, conventional temporary abutments might be preferred.

[Immediate loading of ø 2,4 mm narrow-diameter implants in the edentulous maxilla and mandible]

A 61-year-old healthy patient was referred for prosthetic rehabilitation in the maxilla and mandible. The primary wish of the very anxious patient was to improve the masticatory function and his aesthetic appearance with the least invasiveness and as efficiently as possible. Furthermore, he desired to receive a reliable long-term solution. The patient had no general medical restrictions and was a non-smoker. At the time of the first clinical examination, the patient presented nearly edentulous, with a few root remnants in the mandible and remaining wisdom teeth in the maxilla. The main objective of the treatment, hence, was to improve both his chewing function and the stability of the prostheses without invasive surgeries. After the removal of the root remnants and one of the two wisdom teeth (18), two new complete dentures were fabricated. Thereafter, 6 diameter reduced mini implants (SLA® one-piece self-tapping Straumann® Mini Implants made of Roxolid®, with a diameter of 2.4 mm and a length of 10 mm) were inserted in the maxilla, and 4 mini implants (SLA® one-piece self-tapping Straumann® Mini Implants made of Roxolid®, with a diameter of 2.4 mm and a length of 10 mm) were inserted in the mandible. After the implant insertion with good primary stability, the two new complete dentures were transferred into two implant-supported removable dental prostheses and retained by means of the transmucosal integrated attachment system of the mini implants (Optiloc®). At the 3-month follow-up visit, the patient was very satisfied with the outcomes, both from a functional and aesthetic point of view.

Accuracy of Vertical Dimension Augmentation Using Different Digital Methods Compared to a Clinical Situation-A Pilot Study

PURPOSE

To test the accuracies of different methods of digital vertical dimension augmentation (VDA) by comparison with a clinical situation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bite registrations with approximately 5 mm of VDA were made in the incisor regions of 10 subjects (mean VDA 4.5 mm). The conventional maxillary and mandibular stone casts in maximum intercuspation (MICP) and VDA bite registrations were digitized for all subjects using a laboratory scanner (control group). Lateral portraits were taken of all subjects to locate the position of the condylar axis. Four different digital VDA methods were compared to the control group: 100% rotation of the mandible referring to the lateral picture (100RL); 85% rotation and 15% translation referring to the lateral picture (85R15TL); 100% rotation in normal mounting mode of the Trios virtual articulator (100R); and jaw-motion analysis (JMA) equipment. The amount of VDA for each experimental group was compared to the control group. The augmented distances between the central incisors and the second molars were measured using 3D analyzing software. The ratio of the augmented distances between the posterior and anterior regions (P/A ratio) was calculated. One-way analysis of variance and multiple comparisons via least significant difference test were carried out to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS

The P/A ratio of each group was as follows: Control = 0.61; 100RL = 0.55; 85R15TL = 0.61; 100R = 0.53; JMA = 0.52. Significant differences were observed for control vs JMA and for 85R15TL vs JMA (P < .05). The addition of translational movement was the primary factor for increasing the accuracy of digital VDA, with the lateral picture being a secondary factor.

CONCLUSION

VDA using a virtual articulator with 100% rotation induces an error when compared to the clinical situation. When a clinician performs digital VDA, the setting of 85% rotation and 15% translation produces results closer to the real clinical condition.

The 3D-printed prototype: a new protocol for the evaluation and potential adaptation of monolithic all-ceramic restorations before finalization

The prototyping protocol to evaluate and make the potential adjustments prior to finalization of the monolithic restorations was described by two clinical situations. In the first case report, following the digital impressions using an intraoral scanner (3Shape Trios, 3Shape) for an implant-supported four-unit fixed dental prosthesis, a digital design (3Shape Dental System, 3Shape) was performed and a prototype using subtractive CAM (milling) (PMMA, Telio CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) was fabricated. The second case highlights the 3D-printed prototyping (additive CAM) (Sheraprint Model Plus UV, Shera) following digital impressions using an intraoral scanner and digital design in a patient requiring two opposing open-end three-unit fixed dental prostheses. By means of prototyping, the esthetic, fitting, and functional properties could be tested and the adjustments were completed on the prototypes. It is suggested that prototyping is an efficient tool that minimizes the clinical adjustment need for the final restoration while improving the communication between the dental practitioner and the technician.

Latest advances in augmented reality technology and its integration into the digital workflow

Smile reconstruction is achieved using rigorous and detailed methodologies that are technically demanding and both time and cost intensive. These methodologies do not include the patient during the primary conception phase. New digital technologies using augmented reality (AR) offer the option of immediate diagnosis and pre-visualization of the potential outcome before the start of treatment. A 22-year-old patient with a congenitally missing maxillary right canine, peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors, and multiple visible diastemas required an esthetic rehabilitation. An AR virtual mock-up using specialized software was used to preview and modify the restoration proposal in real time. Using the novel 'CAD-link' workflow, the final AR proposal could be imported into CAD software and transformed into a digital wax-up with the new virtual wax copy function. After a minimally invasive preparation, the final veneer reconstructions were precisely planned according to the previously developed design proposal and bonded according to the well-known adhesive protocol. The workflow described in this article links AR with CAD/CAM technology and is expected to be time and cost efficient. This patient-centered approach involves the patient from the very beginning and is therefore an excellent communication tool between the patient and the restorative team.

Influence of Different Cements on the Color Outcomes of Titanium-Based Lithium Disilicate All-Ceramic Crowns and Peri-implant Soft Tissue

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of different cements on the color outcomes of CAD/CAM lithium-disilicate implant crowns cemented to titanium-base abutments utilizing spectrophotometric analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A clinical situation with a missing lateral incisor was mimicked using a maxillary plastic model. Titanium-base-supported monolithic lithium disilicate crowns with identical designs were fabricated using a laboratory CAD/CAM system. The crowns were cemented with three provisional cements and with six definitive cements on both nonsandblasted and sandblasted titanium-base abutments for a total of 15 test groups. As a control group, identical crowns were attached with try-in paste on composite die abutments that duplicated the shape of the titanium-base abutments. The colors of the labial surfaces of the crowns and the peri-implant artificial soft tissue were measured with a spectrophotometer and recorded in CIE L*a*b* parameters. Color differences between the test and control groups were calculated as: ΔE = ([ΔL*]² + [Δa*]² + [Δb*]²)^1/2. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare ΔE values across different groups.

RESULTS

The median ΔE values reported for crowns cemented with different definitive cements on titanium-base abutments ranged from 1.4 to 2.9 for the crown surface and from 1.7 to 1.9 on the peri-implant artificial soft tissue; when the titanium-base abutments were sandblasted, the respective median ΔE values ranged from 0.8 to 4.0 and from 1.4 to 2.2. Ceramic crowns cemented with Multilink HO 0 cement presented significantly (P < .01) lower ΔE values than the other cement types for the crown surface independent of sandblasting and for the artificial soft tissue surface when the titanium abutments were sandblasted (P = .011).

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, Multilink HO 0 (Ivoclar Vivadent) cement showed the most favorable masking ability and the most favorable color outcome among the evaluated definitive cements. Cements of more opaque shades appeared in general to be more favorable in terms of masking the gray color of the titanium-base abutments.

Virtual diagnostics and guided tooth preparation for the minimally invasive rehabilitation of a patient with extensive tooth wear: A validation of a digital workflow

The recent evolution of digital technologies in dentistry has enabled virtual 3D diagnostic analysis of a dentition before treatment, allowing for virtual, minimally invasive treatment planning. In this report, an extensively worn dentition was 3D virtual analyzed at an increased vertical dimension of occlusion. Virtual waxing (exocad DentalCAD; Exocad) and subsequent analysis of the need for minimally invasive preparations were performed. Areas of each tooth without adequate clearance for the minimal thickness of a definitive restoration (set at 1.5 mm in the software), including the amount of tooth substance to be removed (GOM Inspect; GOM), were visualized in color. A preparation guide was virtually designed according to this diagnostic plan (3-matic; Materialise) and 3D printed (Connex3 Objet260; Stratasys) from resin (VeroMagenta RGD851; Stratasys). The teeth were minimally prepared using the guide, and the amount of preparation was validated by superimposing the scan of the prepared model on the initial scan and comparing it with the diagnostic plan.

Randomized controlled clinical trial of digital and conventional workflows for the fabrication of zirconia-ceramic posterior fixed partial dentures. Part II: Time efficiency of CAD-CAM versus conventional laboratory procedures

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Clinical trials are needed to evaluate the digital and conventional fabrication technology for providing fixed partial dentures (FPDs).

PURPOSE

The purpose of the second part of this clinical study was to compare the laboratory production time for tooth-supported, 3-unit FPDs by means of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems and a conventional workflow. In addition, the quality of the 3-unit framework of each treatment group was evaluated clinically.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

For each of 10 participants, a 3-unit FPD was fabricated. Zirconia was used as the framework material in the CAD-CAM systems and included Lava C.O.S. CAD software (3M) and centralized CAM (group L); CARES CAD software (Institut Straumann AG) and centralized CAM (group iT); and CEREC Connect CAD software (Dentsply Sirona) and centralized CAM (group C). The noble metal framework in the conventional workflow (group K) was fabricated by means of the traditional lost-wax technique. All frameworks were evaluated clinically before veneering. The time for the fabrication of the cast, the 3-unit framework, and the veneering process was recorded. In addition, chairside time during the clinical appointment for the evaluation of the framework was recorded. The paired Wilcoxon test together with appropriate Bonferroni correction was applied to detect differences among treatment groups (α=.05).

RESULTS

The total effective working time (mean ±standard deviation) for the dental technician was 220 ±29 minutes in group L, 217 ±23 minutes in group iT, 262 ±22 minutes in group C, and 370 ±34 minutes in group K. The dental technician spent significantly more time in the conventional workflow than in the digital workflow, independent of the CAD-CAM systems used (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Irrespective of the CAD-CAM system, the overall laboratory time for the dental technician was significantly less for a digital workflow than for the conventional workflow.

Color Differences Between Pink Veneering Ceramics and the Human Gingiva

The aim of this study was to examine 10 different shades of pink ceramic to determine which one best matches the mean color of human gingiva. Bar-shaped zirconia samples were fabricated and veneered with 1 of 10 pink zirconia veneering ceramics. The color of the gingiva at the central maxillary incisors of 20 healthy volunteers was compared to the pink veneering ceramics using a spectrophotometer (Spectroshade, MHT). The obtained color parameters L*, a*, and b* (CIELAB) of the gingiva and the ceramics were used to calculate the color difference (ΔE). Mean ΔE values were descriptively analyzed and compared to the threshold value for visibility of color differences of gingiva (ΔE = 3.1). The lowest pink ceramic ΔE value obtained (closest to the mean ΔE of all the volunteers' gingiva) was 6.2. All the tested ceramics exhibited a color difference above the threshold value for visibility.

Fracture strength of zirconia implant abutments on narrow diameter implants with internal and external implant abutment connections: A study on the titanium resin base concept

BACKGROUND

There is limited knowledge regarding the strength of zirconia abutments with internal and external implant abutment connections and zirconia abutments supported by a titanium resin base (Variobase, Straumann) for narrow diameter implants.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the fracture strength of narrow diameter abutments with different types of implant abutment connections after chewing simulation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Hundred and twenty identical customized abutments with different materials and implant abutment connections were fabricated for five groups: 1-piece zirconia abutment with internal connection (T1, Cares-abutment-Straumann BL-NC implant, Straumann Switzerland), 1-piece zirconia abutment with external hex connection (T2, Procera abutment-Branemark NP implant, Nobel Biocare, Sweden), 2-piece zirconia abutments with metallic insert for internal connection (T3, Procera abutment-Replace NP implant, Nobel Biocare), 2-piece zirconia abutment on titanium resin base (T4, LavaPlus abutment-VarioBase-Straumann BL-NC implant, 3M ESPE, Germany) and 1-piece titanium abutment with internal connection (C, Cares-abutment-Straumann BL-NC implant, Straumann, Switzerland). All implants had a narrow diameter ranging from 3.3 to 3.5 mm. Sixty un-restored abutments and 60 abutments restored with glass-ceramic crowns were tested. Mean bending moments were compared using ANOVA with p-values adjusted for multiple comparisons using Tukey's procedure.

RESULTS

The mean bending moments were 521 ± 33 Ncm (T4), 404 ± 36 Ncm (C), 311 ± 106 Ncm (T1) 265 ± 22 Ncm (T3) and 225 ± 29 (T2) for un-restored abutments and 278 ± 84 Ncm (T4), 302 ± 170 Ncm (C), 190 ± 55 Ncm (T1) 80 ± 102 Ncm (T3) and 125 ± 57 (T2) for restored abutments. For un-restored abutments, C and T4 had similar mean bending moments, significantly higher than those of the three other groups (p < .05). Titanium abutments (C) had significantly higher bending moments than identical zirconia abutments (T1) (p < .05). Zirconia abutments (T1) with internal connection had higher bending moments than zirconia abutments with external connection (T2) (p < .05). For all test groups, the bending moments were significantly reduced when restored with all-ceramic crowns.

CONCLUSIONS

For narrow diameter abutments, the fracture strength of 2-piece internal connected zirconia abutments fixed on titanium resin bases was similar to those obtained for 1-piece titanium abutments. Narrow diameter zirconia abutments with internal connection exhibited higher fracture strength than zirconia abutments with an external connection. Titanium abutments with an internal connection were significantly stronger than identical zirconia abutments.

Monolithic zirconia multiple-unit implant reconstructions on titanium bonding bases

The development of titanium bonding bases allows for the use of implant-supported monolithic reconstructions in a digital workflow. Different base configurations are available according to each clinical indication. In this case report, the selection of titanium bonding bases for crowns was considered for a multiple-unit fixed dental prosthesis (FDP).

Clinical quality and efficiency of monolithic glass ceramic crowns in the posterior area: digital compared with conventional workflows

PURPOSE

The aim of this clinical study was to test whether or not digital workflows for the fabrication of crowns render different clinical outcomes from the conventional pathway with respect to (1) crown quality, and (2) time efficiency.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

For each of the 10 patients in need of one tooth-supported crown, five monolithic crowns were produced out of lithium disilicate reinforced glass ceramic. Four different optical impression and associated computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems were used for crown fabrication (digital workflows): (1) Lava C.O.S. scanner and Lava C.O.S. and CARES CAD software, centralized CAM (group L); (2) Cadent iTero scanner, CARES CAD software and centralized CAM (group iT); (3) Cerec Bluecam, Cerec Connect CAD software, followed by laboratory-based CAM (group CiL); and (4) centralized CAM (group CiD). The conventional crown (group K) was fabricated based on a conventional silicone impression followed by a conventional wax-up and heat press technique. The examiners were blinded and evaluated the crowns clinically at the bisque-bake stage (initial try-in), and subsequently after finalization by a dental technician (final try-in). For the assessment of crown quality, modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria were used. Treatment times were recorded for clinical evaluation and adjustment. The quality ratings were analyzed descriptively. For both the continuous and ordinal outcomes, the non-parametric paired Wilcoxon test was applied, together with an appropriate Bonferroni correction to evaluate the differences between treatment groups. The results of the statistical analysis were interpreted globally at the significance level P = 0.05.

RESULTS

The clinical evaluation during the initial and final try-ins demonstrated similar clinical outcome measures for crowns generated with the four digital workflows and the conventional workflow. No statistically significant differences of crown quality in any state were found between groups (P > 0.005). The total clinical treatment times measured were: 456 ± 240 s for L; 655 ± 374 s for iT; 783 ± 403 s for CiL; 556 ± 285 s for CiD; and 833 ± 451 s for K. No statistically significant differences in treatment times were found between the groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of the present study, the monolithic ceramic crowns resulting from the four different CAD/CAM systems did not differ from the conventionally produced crowns with respect to the clinical quality rating and the treatment time efficiency.

Possibilities and limitations of computer-assisted implant planning and guided surgery in the anterior region

Three-dimensional (3D) implant positioning is an important prognostic factor for anterior dental implants. Modern 3D imaging and implant treatment planning systems are available today for precise dental implant planning and placement. The transfer of implant position information to industrially manufactured templates for guided implant surgery has been possible for years now. What is new is the possibility of combining the datasets with the surface scan data of a diagnostic wax-up and setup for prosthetic-driven implant planning. Digital setups can also be used. This article describes and discusses the available options for digital implant planning and guided surgery.

Randomized controlled within-subject evaluation of digital and conventional workflows for the fabrication of lithium disilicate single crowns. Part II: CAD-CAM versus conventional laboratory procedures

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Clinical studies are needed to evaluate the entire digital and conventional workflows in prosthetic dentistry.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the second part of this clinical study was to compare the laboratory production time for tooth-supported single crowns made with 4 different digital workflows and 1 conventional workflow and to compare these crowns clinically.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

For each of 10 participants, a monolithic crown was fabricated in lithium disilicate-reinforced glass ceramic (IPS e.max CAD). The computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems were Lava C.O.S. CAD software and centralized CAM (group L), Cares CAD software and centralized CAM (group iT), Cerec Connect CAD software and lab side CAM (group CiL), and Cerec Connect CAD software with centralized CAM (group CiD). The conventional fabrication (group K) included a wax pattern of the crown and heat pressing according to the lost-wax technique (IPS e.max Press). The time for the fabrication of the casts and the crowns was recorded. Subsequently, the crowns were clinically evaluated and the corresponding treatment times were recorded. The Paired Wilcoxon test with the Bonferroni correction was applied to detect differences among treatment groups (α=.05).

RESULTS

The total mean (±standard deviation) active working time for the dental technician was 88 ±6 minutes in group L, 74 ±12 minutes in group iT, 74 ±5 minutes in group CiL, 92 ±8 minutes in group CiD, and 148 ±11 minutes in group K. The dental technician spent significantly more working time for the conventional workflow than for the digital workflows (P<.001). No statistically significant differences were found between group L and group CiD or between group iT and group CiL. No statistical differences in time for the clinical evaluation were found among groups, indicating similar outcomes (P>.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Irrespective of the CAD-CAM system, the overall laboratory working time for a digital workflow was significantly shorter than for the conventional workflow, since the dental technician needed less active working time.