The effect of fatigue loading on the screw joint stability of zirconium abutment

PurposeThis study evaluated the effect of fatigue loading on the screw joint stability of a zirconium abutment connected to an external hexagon implant in vitro.Materials and methodsFifteen titanium and 15 zirconia abutments of 3 different heights (5, 8, and 11 mm) were connected to external titanium implants with titanium screws. A torque gauge was used to measure the reverse torque values before and after loading. An air cylindrical loading device was used to simulate mastication at a 45-degree angle to the longitudinal axis of the implant.ResultsThere were significant differences (P < 0.05) before and after the loading of titanium (5 mm) and zirconia (5, 8, and 11 mm) abutments.ConclusionZirconia abutments for external hexagon implants had durability rates similar to those of titanium abutments after repeating load on the reverse torque of the abutment screw, indicating that the zirconia abutment could be reliably used instead of the titanium abutment.     

Effect of implant abutment connection designs,and implant diameters on screw loosening before and after cyclic loading: In-vitro study

AimsThe purpose of this in-vitro study was to evaluate the screw loosening of two different forms of implant abutment connection designs, and two implant diameters by measuring removal torque value (RTV) before and after cyclic loading.Materials and methodsTwenty implant fixtures were divided equally into 2 groups (N = 10): group I fixture with conical hybrid connection (CH), and group II fixture with internal hex connection (IH). Each group was divided equally into two subgroups according to implant diameters: subgroup A (3.3 mm), and subgroup B (4.2 mm). Each fixture was vertically placed in the center of an acrylic resin block. The samples were fixed to the jig, and an implant abutment connected it with a 20 Ncm tightening torque. The samples were subjected to eccentric cyclic loading (at a distance of 5 mm) away from center of abutment at 100,000 cycles. A digital torque gauge was used to evaluate screw loosening by measuring RTVs in (Ncm) before and after cyclic loading. The removal torque loss ratio before and after cyclic loading and the removal torque loss ratio between before and after cyclic loading were calculated and analyzed using the SPSS statistical analysis.ResultsFor GI the initial removal torque loss ratio measurement was (14.45 ± 3.18) and decreased significantly after loading, it was (11.47 ± 3.64). For GII the initial removal torque loss ratio measurement was (20.47 ± 4.99) and increased significantly after loading, being (35.35 ± 4.26). There is no significant effect upon screw loosening for two implant diameters.ConclusionWithin the limitations of this study, the results suggested that conical hybrid connections showed a better screw stability than an internal hex connection. Therefore, the use of conical implants can be promoted as they have better screw stability compared to other systems.     

Displacement comparison of CAD–CAM titanium and zirconia abutments to implants with different conical connections

Purpose

To compare the displacements of CAD–CAM zirconia and titanium abutments into different internal connection systems after torquing.

Influence of the interface design on the yield force of the implant-abutment complex before and after cyclic mechanical loading

PurposeThe aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the implant–abutment assembly of Astra Tech (AST), Bego (BEG), Camlog (CAM), Friadent (FRI), Nobel Biocare (NOB) and Straumann (STR) with respect to yield force before and after cyclic fatigue, using a static overload test with a test set-up according to ISO 14801.MethodsTen specimens of each type were split into two homogenous groups: one half was tested for static yield force without any further treatment (control), whereas the other one underwent one million cycles of mechanical loading with 100 N as the upper load limit. For load-to-failure testing, specimens were then placed in a stainless steel jig and loaded in a universal testing machine under an angle of 30° with respect to the implant axis until failure. Load–displacement curves were analyzed and the yield forces at which non-linear behaviour set in (Fp) were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and t-test, respectively, with the level of significance set at 0.05.ResultsStatistical analysis revealed that the type of implant–abutment connection has a significant influence on Fp (p < 0.001). Furthermore, dynamic loading proved to significantly influence Fp of BEG and CAM (p < 0.001).ConclusionNone of the implant–abutment types tested would be expected to fail under clinically relevant forces, but the type of implant–abutment connection significantly influences the yield force Fp.     

Influence of abutment-to-fixture design on reliability and failure mode of all-ceramic crown systems

ObjectiveEvaluate the effect of implant connection designs on reliability and failure modes of screw-retained all-ceramic crowns.MethodsCentral incisor ceramic crowns in zirconia abutments were screwed and torqued down to external hexagon (EH), internal hexagon (IH) and Morse taper (MT) implant systems. Single-load-to-fracture (SLF) test (n = 4 per group) determined three step-stress fatigue profiles with specimens assigned in the ratio of 3:2:1. Fatigue test was performed under water at 10 Hz. Use level probability Weibull curves and reliability for missions of 50,000 cycles at 400 N and 200 N were calculated (90% confidence bounds-CB). Weibull probability distribution (90% CB) was plotted (Weibull modulus vs characteristic strength) for comparison between the groups. Fractographic analyses were conducted under polarized-light microscopy and SEM.ResultsUse level Weibull probability calculation indicated that failure was not associated with fatigue in groups EH (β = 0.63), IH (β = 0.97) and MT (β = 0.19). Reliability data for a mission of 50,000 cycles at 400 N revealed significant reliability differences between groups EH (97%), IH (46%) and MT (0.5%) but no significant difference at 200 N between EH (100%) and IH (98%), and IH and MT (89%). Weibull strength distribution (figure) revealed β = 13.1/η = 561.8 for EH, β = 5.8/η = 513.4 for IH and β = 5.3/η = 333.2 for MT. Groups EH and IH exhibited veneer cohesive and adhesive failures. Group IH also presented adhesive failure at zirconia/titanium abutment insert while MT showed fracture at abutment neck.SignificanceAlthough group EH presented higher reliability and characteristic strength followed by IH and MT, all groups withstood reported mean anterior loads.     

A comparison of stress relaxation in temporary and permanent luting cements

PurposeThe stress relaxation and compressive strength of resin, resin-modified glass ionomer, glass ionomer, polycarboxylate, and zinc oxide eugenol cements were measured to determine the characteristics of these materials after setting.MethodsA total of 19 luting cements including 12 permanent cements and 7 temporary cements were used. Cylindrical cement specimens (10 mm long and 6 mm in diameter) were obtained by chemical setting or light curing. The specimens were stored for 24–36 h in water at 37 °C and were then used for the stress relaxation and compression tests. The stress relaxation test was carried out using three constant cross-head speeds of 5, 50, and 100 mm/min. Upon reaching the preset dislocation of 0.5 mm, the cross-head movement was stopped, and the load was recorded for 60 s. Fractional stress loss at 1 s was calculated from the relaxation curves. The compressive strength and modulus were measured at a cross-head speed of 1 mm/min. Data were analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis test and Holm's test.ResultsA zinc oxide eugenol cement [TempBOND NX] exhibited the largest fractional stress loss. A resin cement [ResiCem] showed the largest compressive strength, while a glass ionomer cement [HY-BOND GLASIONOMER CX] showed the largest compressive modulus among all tested cements (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe fractional stress loss could not be classified by the cement type. Two implant cements [Multilink Implant and IP Temp Cement] showed similar properties with permanent resin cements and temporary glass ionomer cements, respectively. Careful consideration of the choice of cement is necessary.     

Retentive force of stress-breaking attachments on maxillary implant overdentures

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the hardness of resilient materials applied to the female parts of specialized ball attachments, and the diameter of ball abutments on the retention of an implant overdenture.MethodsA cast chrome-cobalt framework was mounted onto a maxillary edentulous model. Eight different ball abutments, with diameters of 2.5, 2.75, 3.0 and 3.25 mm, and with undercut (UC) of 0.5 and 1.0 mm, which was the difference between the ball diameter and the neck diameter, were screwed into implants which were connected to resilient materials with four different degrees of hardness (58, 68, 78 and 90) conforming to ISO7619. A universal testing machine was used to test the 32 different attachments (crosshead speed 3 mm/min). Three tests of 10 consecutive pull separations were done in both vertical and oblique directions. After 10 consecutive pull separations, the inner surfaces of the resilient materials were examined by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The measured retentive forces were analyzed statistically using ANOVA and Tukey's tests.ResultsBoth the hardness of the resilient materials and the diameter of the ball abutments significantly affected the retentive force (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe designs with the diameter of the ball abutments ranging from 2.75 to 3.0 mm and UC of 0.5 mm, and with the hardness of the resilient materials ranging from 68 to 78, were considered to be suitable for this attachment system.     

Influence of TiO2 nanoparticles on the optical properties of resin composites

ObjectivesTo determine the influence of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticle addition on the opalescence, color, translucency and fluorescence of experimental resin composites.MethodsA light curing resin matrix was made by mixing 60 wt.% Bis-GMA and 40 wt.% TEGDMA. Silane coated glass filler (mean particle size: 1.55 μm) was added in the ratio of 50 wt.% of the resin composites. A fluorescent whitening agent was also added (0.05 wt.%). TiO₂ nanoparticles (<40 nm) were added with the concentrations of 0, 0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 wt.%. Reflected and transmitted colors of 1 and 2 mm thick specimens were measured relative to the illuminant D65 with reflection spectrophotometers. Opalescence parameter (OP), color difference (ΔE*_ab), translucency parameter (TP), fluorescence parameter (FL), and fluorescence and opalescence spectra were calculated.ResultsFor the 1 mm thick specimens measured with 3 mm × 8 mm rectangular aperture, when the concentration of TiO₂ increased from 0% to 0.5%, OP increased from 2.4 to 18.0, TP decreased from 35.4 to 13.1, and fluorescence spectra remained unchanged. Color difference between these specimens was in the range of 3.4–6.6 ΔE*_ab units. OP values were significantly influenced by the thickness of the specimens and the configuration of the spectrophotometers (p < 0.05).SignificanceAddition of TiO₂ nanoparticles significantly increased the opalescence of resin composites while leaving the fluorescence spectra unchanged; however, it significantly decreased the translucency and also changed the color (p < 0.05). Resin composites with 0.1–0.25% TiO₂ nanoparticle would simulate the opalescence of human enamel.     

Shear bond strength between light polymerized hard reline resin and denture base resin subjected to long term water immersion

Statement of the problemThe effect of long-term water immersion on the shear bond strength between denture base resin and Triad visible-light-polymerized (VLP) direct hard reline resin is not known.PurposeThe aim of this study was to investigate the bonding characteristics of Triad VLP direct hard reline resin to heat-polymerized denture base resin subjected to long-term water immersion.Material and methodsNinety circular disks, 15 mm in diameter and 3 mm thick, of denture base resin were polymerized from a gypsum mold. Sixty specimens were subjected to water immersion and 30 were stored at ambient room temperature for 4 months. Thirty water-immersed specimens were dried with gauze (group 1), while the other 30 water-immersed specimens were dried with a hair dryer (group 2). The dry specimens (n = 30) represented the control group (group 3). All specimens were air abraded and painted with bonding agent before packing Triad VLP direct hard-reline resin. Specimens in each group were subjected to thermal cycling for 50,000 cycles between 4 °C and 60 °C water baths with 1-min dwell time at each temperature. The bond strength at which the bond failed under stress was recorded using a universal testing machine. One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc comparison were applied to find significant differences between groups (α = 0.05).ResultsSignificant differences in mean shear bond strength among the specimens existed because of variable water content in the denture base resin (P < 0.05). Group 3 (dry) was higher than group 2 (desiccated), and the lowest was group 1 (saturated).ConclusionThe shear bond strength of Triad VLP direct hard reline resin to denture base resin depended on the water content in the denture base resin. The dry denture base resin demonstrated superior bond strength compared with the desiccated and water-saturated denture base resins.     

Comparison between computer-guided and freehand dental implant placement surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The purpose of this systematic review was to compare computer-guided (fully guided) and freehand implant placement surgery in terms of marginal bone loss, complications, and implant survival. This review followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42019135893). Two independent investigators performed the search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases for studies published up to April 2020 and identified 1508 references. After a detailed review, only four studies were considered eligible. These studies involved a total of 154 patients with 597 dental implants and a mean follow-up period of 2.25 years. There was no difference between computer-guided surgery and freehand surgery in terms of the marginal bone loss (mean difference ?0.11 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) ?0.27 to 0.04 mm; P = 0.16), mechanical complications (risk ratio (RR) 0.85, 95% CI 0.36–2.04; P = 0.72), biological complications (RR 1.56, 95% CI 0.42–5.74; P = 0.51), and implant survival rate (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.11–2.43; P = 0.41). This meta-analysis demonstrated that both computer-guided and freehand surgeries yielded similar results for marginal bone loss, mechanical and biological complications, and implant survival rate.     

Influence of abutment angulation on loss of prosthetic abutment torque under mechanical cycling

Statement of problemInternal conical connections provide mechanical stability for the prosthetic abutment and implant connection. However, some clinical situations require the use of angled prosthetic abutments that may increase stress on supportive implants by difference force vectors under cyclic loading.PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to measure the screw loosening values of prosthetic abutments with internal conical connections (indexed and nonindexed) having different angles under mechanical cycling.Material and methodsThirty-six implants (4.0×13 mm, Titamax) with internal conical connections and their respective universal prosthetic abutments (n=36, 3.5×3.3 mm) were divided into indexed and nonindexed groups (n=18) with abutment inclinations of 0 (straight), 17, and 30 degrees. An insertion torque of 15 Ncm was applied according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The specimens underwent fatigue testing of 500 000 cycles at a frequency of 2 Hz with a dynamic compressive load of 120 N at an angle of 30 degrees. The detorque values were measured by using a digital torque meter and tabulated for statistical analyses.ResultsThe specimens with indexed abutments had mean ±standard deviation detorque values of 6.72 ±2.29 Ncm under mechanical cycling, whereas those with nonindexed abutments had values of 8.98 ±1.84 Ncm. In the indexed group, the lowest detorque value was observed for abutments at 30 degrees compared with the straight group (P<.05). As for nonindexed abutments, similar detorque values were observed after increasing the abutment inclination (P>.05).ConclusionsA decrease in detorque values in the indexed abutments related to their inclination was found under mechanical cycling, whereas the prosthetic abutments with 30 degrees of angulation had the lowest values. No decrease was found in the nonindexed abutments.     

Microtensile bond strength of resin-based composites to Ti–6Al–4V

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine the microtensile bond strength of various resin composite/adhesive systems to alumina particle abraded Ti–6Al–4V substrate after aging for 24 h, 10 days, and 30 days in distilled water at 37 °C.MethodsFour laboratory resin composite veneering systems (Gradia, GR; Solidex, SOL; Ceramage, CER; and Sinfony, SF) were bonded to 25 mm diameter machined disks of Ti–6Al–4V with their respective adhesive and methodology, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Microtensile bars of approximate dimensions 1 mm × 1 mm × 6 mm were prepared for each resin composite/adhesive system. After cutting, groups (n = 12) from each adhesive system were separated and either stored in water at 37 °C for 24 h (baseline) or aged for 10 or 30 days prior to loading to failure under tension at a cross head speed of 1.0 mm/min. Failure modes were determined by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical analysis was performed through one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test at 95% level of significance.ResultsSignificant variation in microtensile bond strength was observed for the different systems and aging times. SOL and GR showed the highest mean bond strength values followed by SF and CER at baseline. Aging specimens in water had an adverse effect on bond strength for SOL and CER but not for the SF and GR groups.SignificanceIn vitro bond strength of laboratory resin composites to Ti–6Al–4V suggests that strong bonds can be achieved and are stable for certain systems, making them useful as an alternative for esthetic fixed prosthetic restorations.     

Influence of microthreads and platform switching on stress distribution in bone using angled abutments

PurposeTo evaluate the stress distribution in peri-implant bone by simulating the effect of an implant with microthreads and platform switching on angled abutments through tridimensional finite element analysis. The postulated hypothesis was that the presence of microthreads and platform switching would reduce the stress concentration in the cortical bone.MethodsFour mathematical models of a central incisor supported by an implant (5.0 mm × 13 mm) were created in which the type of thread surface in the neck portion (microthreaded or smooth) and the diameter of the angled abutment connection (5.0 and 4.1 mm) were varied. These models included the RM (regular platform and microthreads), the RS (regular platform and smooth neck surface), the SM (platform switching and microthreads), and the SS (platform switching and smooth neck). The analysis was performed using ANSYS Workbench 10.0 (Swanson Analysis System). An oblique load (100 N) was applied to the palatine surface of the central incisor. The bone/implant interface was considered to be perfectly integrated. Values for the maximum (σ_max) and minimum (σ_min) principal stress, the equivalent von Mises stress (σ_vM), and the maximum principal elastic strain (?_max) for cortical and trabecular bone were obtained.ResultsFor the cortical bone, the highest σ_max (MPa) were observed for the RM (55.1), the RS (51.0), the SM (49.5), and the SS (44.8) models. The highest σ_vM (MPa) were found for the RM (45.4), the SM (42.1), the RS (38.7), and the SS models (37). The highest values for σ_min were found for the RM, SM, RS and SS models. For the trabecular bone, the highest σ_max values (MPa) were observed in the RS model (6.55), followed by the RM (6.37), SS (5.6), and SM (5.2) models.ConclusionThe hypothesis that the presence of microthreads and a switching platform would reduce the stress concentration in the cortical bone was partially rejected, mainly because the microthreads increased the stress concentration in cortical bone. Only platform switching reduced the stress in cortical bone.     

Characterization of two Ni–Cr dental alloys and the influence of casting mode on mechanical properties

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate the tensile strength, elongation, microhardness (MHV), composition and microstructure of two Ni–Cr based alloy, cast under different casting conditions.MethodsBefore casting, the alloy ingots were evaluated as regards composition (EDX) and microstructure (Optical microscopy, SEM and EDX). The casting conditions were as follows: electromagnetic induction in an environment controlled with argon (EWA), electromagnetic induction in an environment under vacuum (EWV), electromagnetic induction without atmosphere control (EWNC) and blowtorch (BT). For each condition, 16 specimens were obtained, each measuring 25 mm high and 2.5 mm in diameter. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation (EL) tests were performed in a Kratos machine (1.0 mm/min). Fractured specimens were embedded in bakelite resin and polished for Vickers Microhardness analysis (1000 g/10 s) with 4 penetrations in each specimen. The UTS, EL and MHV results were evaluated for two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).ResultsThe cross-product interaction was statistically significant for all properties evaluated (p < 0.0001), lower UTS, VHN and higth elongation means were observed for the Ni–Cr–Mo–Be alloy tested when cast under the induction/argon (p < 0.05). Higher UTS means were found for Ni–Cr–Mo–Ti alloy tested when cast under the induction/vacuum, and induction/air and flame/air condition (p < 0.05). The two alloys show a microstructure with a dendritic formation with the presence of eutectic presence.ConclusionThe Ni–Cr–Mo–Ti alloy showed higth UTS, MHV and lowest EL comparaded with the tradicional Ni–Cr–Mo–Be, that show lowest UTS, MHV and higter EL when cast on induction/argon.     

Analisi agli elementi finiti per la definizione della distribuzione degli stress meccanici negli impianti

ObjectivesTo study a spiral family implant by finite element analysis (FEA) inserted in mandible, connected with straight abutment and loaded with vertical and lateral forces.Materials and methodsThe biomechanical behaviour of 5 mm × 13 mm Ultimate dental implant (AoN Implants, Grisignano di Zocco, Vicenza, Italy), connecting screw, straight abutment subjected to static loads, in contact with mandibular bone was evaluated by FEA.ResultsStress and strain values of fixture are comparable to those obtained by analyzing different spiral implants.ConclusionsThese implants can be used in mandibular bone. However, clinical studies are needed to verify the reported results.     

Comparison of the accuracy for three dental impression techniques and index: An in vitro study

ObjectivesThis in vitro study compared the dimensional accuracy of stone index (I) and three impression techniques: tapered impression copings (T), squared impression copings (S) and modified squared impression copings (MS) for implant-supported prostheses.MethodsA master cast, with four parallel implant abutment analogs and a passive framework, were fabricated. Vinyl polysiloxane impression material was used for all impressions with two metal stock trays (open and closed tray). Four groups (I, T, S and MS) were tested (n = 5). A metallic framework was seated on each of the casts, one abutment screw was tightened, and the gap between the analog of implant and the framework was measured with a stereomicroscope. The groups’ measurements (80 gap values) were analyzed using software (LeicaQWin – Leica Imaging Systems Ltd.) that received the images of a video camera coupled to a Leica stereomicroscope at 100× magnification. The results were statistically analyzed with Kruskal–Wallis One Way ANOVA on Ranks test followed by Dunn's Method, 0.05.ResultsThe mean values of abutment/framework interface gaps were: Master Cast = 32 μm (SD 2); Group I = 45 μm (SD 3); Group T = 78 μm (SD 25); Group S = 134 μm (SD 30); Group MS = 143 μm (SD 27). No significant difference was detected among Index and Master Cast (P = .05).ConclusionUnder the limitations of this study, it could be suggested that a more accurate working cast is possible using tapered impression copings techniques and stone index.     

Clinical performance and SEM marginal quality of extended posterior resin composite restorations after 12 years

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical behavior of two different resin-based restorative systems in extended Class II cavities in a controlled prospective split-mouth study over 12 years and to assess marginal quality under a SEM using epoxy replicas.MethodsThirty patients received 68 resin composite restorations (Solobond M + Grandio: n = 36; Syntac + Tetric Ceram: n = 32) by one dentist in a private practice. 35% of cavities revealed no enamel at the bottom of the proximal box, 48% of cavities provided <0.5 mm remaining proximal enamel. Restorations were examined according to modified USPHS criteria at baseline, and after six months, one, two, four, six, eight, 10, and 12 years. Expoxy replicas of 21 restoration pairs were analysed under a SEM at 200× magnification regarding marginal quality.ResultsAt the 12-years recall, 59 of the original 68 restorations in 27 of 30 patients were available (drop out 13%). Two restorations failed due to cusp fracture (Tetric Ceram) and marginal fracture (Grandio). The overall success rate of all restorations was 97.1% (Kaplan–Meier survival algorithm) with no differences between the two materials (p = 0.923). After 144 months of clinical service, restorations in molars performed worse than in premolars regarding the integrity of restoration and tooth (p < 0.05) being detected as wear, chippings, and cracks. Beyond the 4-year recall, marginal staining significantly increased. SEM evaluation of replicas revealed that perfect margin (49% baseline vs. 10% after 12 years), overhang (13% at baseline vs. 3% after 12 years), negative step formation (34% at baseline vs. 75% after 12 years), and marginal fractures (0% at baseline vs. 6% after 12 years) significantly changed during the evaluation period (p < 0.001).SignificanceExtended direct resin composite restorations performed satisfactorily over 12 years of clinical service. SEM analysis delivered qualitative data regarding marginal deterioration over time.     

Tensile bond strength of cast commercially pure titanium dowel and cores cemented with three luting agents

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to compare the tensile strength of commercially pure titanium dowels and cores cemented with zinc phosphate or resin cements.MethodsTwenty-one extracted human canines were endodontically treated. The root preparations were accomplished using Largo reamers (10 mm in depth and 1.7 mm in diameter). Acrylic resin patterns for the dowel and cores were made, and specimens were cast in commercially pure titanium (n = 7) and divided in three groups: TZ–CP Ti dowels luted with zinc phosphate luting agent, TP–CP Ti dowels luted with Panavia F and TR–CP Ti dowels luted with RelyX U100. Tensile strengths were measured in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. The results (N) were statistically analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 0.01).ResultsThe ANOVA indicated that there were significant differences among the groups tested. A Tukey multiple comparison procedure was performed and revealed statistically significant higher retention values for the dowel luted with RelyX U100 when compared with zinc phosphate or Panavia F.ConclusionCast commercially pure titanium dowels and cores fixed with RelyX U100 cement presented superior bond strength retention when compared to zinc phosphate and Panavia F.     

Effects of a fluoride etchant and a phosphate primer on bonding of veneering composite to Ti–6Al–4V alloy for CAD/CAM restorations

PurposeTitanium abutments and superstructures are commonly veneered or covered with esthetic materials. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the effects of an experimental surface treatment using etchant and primer on bond strength between a resin composite and Ti–6Al–4V alloy.MethodsDisk-shaped Ti–6Al–4V alloy was machine milled, the surface was air abraded with alumina, and the alloy was chemically etched with 5wt% ammonium hydrogen fluoride (F-etch) for 30 s. A phosphate primer (MDP-primer) was applied to the bonding area, and then a resin composite, with or without milled-fiber resin composite (FRC), was veneered on the specimen. Shear bond strengths were determined after thermocycling for 20,000 cycles. Bond strength data were analyzed by means of ANOVA and a multiple comparison test (α = 0.05). The surface of Ti–6Al–4V alloy was observed using a scanning electron microscope before and after the etching procedure.ResultsNo-FRC/F-etch/MDP-primer exhibited the highest bond strength (28.2 MPa), followed by No-FRC/No-etching/MDP-primer (24.2 MPa), FRC/F-etch/MDP-primer (19.9 MPa), FRC/No-etching/MDP-primer (17.8 MPa), No-FRC/No-etching/No-primer (13.6 MPa), while FRC/No-etching/No-primer (2.5 MPa) resulted in the lowest value. Microphotographs showed that numerous micro and nano pits were created on the Ti–6Al–4V alloy surface modified with F-etch.ConclusionsThe bond strength between Ti–6Al–4V alloy and the veneering resin composite was the highest when the alloy surface was modified with alumina blasting, fluoride etchant, and phosphate primer successively.     

The combined effects of undersized drilling and implant macrogeometry on bone healing around dental implants: an experimental study

This study investigated the effect of undersized preparations with two different implant macrogeometries. There were four experimental groups: group 1, conical implant with an undersized osteotomy of 3.2 mm; group 2, conical implant with an undersized osteotomy of 3.5 mm; group 3, cylindrical implant with an undersized osteotomy of 3.2 mm; group 4, cylindrical implant with an undersized osteotomy of 3.5 mm. Implants were placed in one side of the sheep mandible (n = 6). After 3 weeks, the same procedure was conducted on the other side; 3 weeks later, euthanasia was performed. All implants were 4 mm × 10 mm. Insertion torque was recorded for all implants during implantation. Retrieved samples were subjected to histological sectioning and histomorphometry. Implants of groups 1 and 2 presented significantly higher insertion torque than those of groups 3 and 4 (P < 0.001). No differences in bone-to-implant contact or bone area fraction occupied were observed between the groups at 3 weeks (P > 0.24, and P > 0.25, respectively), whereas significant differences were observed at 6 weeks between groups 1 and 2, and between groups 3 and 4 (P < 0.01). Undersized drilling affected the biological establishment of bone formation around both dental implant macrogeometries.