What is an implant abutment and what is its function？

What is an implant abutment and what is its function?

Implant Abutment is the intermediary component that connects the Dental Implant (i.e. the metal screw implanted into the jawbone) and the final restoration (such as a crown, bridge or denture). Its main functions include:

• Connection: The abutment connects the implant to the restoration, ensuring stability and functionality between the two.
• Support: The abutment provides a solid foundation to support the crown or other restoration, ensuring its stability during chewing and daily use.
• Adjustment: The abutment design can help adjust the angle and position of the restoration to better fit the patient's oral structure.
• Esthetics: The shape and color of the abutment can be designed to match the surrounding natural teeth, thereby improving aesthetics.

What are the materials of implant abutments?

Implant abutments are usually made of the following materials:

• Titanium alloy: Titanium is the most commonly used material due to its excellent biocompatibility, strength and corrosion resistance. Titanium alloy abutments generally have higher stability and durability.
• Zirconium Alloy: Zirconium alloy is a newer material with good aesthetics and biocompatibility. Its color is close to natural teeth and is suitable for the front teeth area.
• Stainless steel: Stainless steel abutments are often used for temporary restorations due to their lower cost, but may not be as durable as titanium and zirconium alloys in the long term.
• Composite: Composite materials can also be used for abutments in certain cases, especially in temporary restorations where esthetics are required.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of different materials?

• Titanium Alloy:

• Advantages: good biocompatibility, high strength, strong corrosion resistance, and stable in long-term use.

• Disadvantages: Darker in color, may not be as aesthetically pleasing as zirconium alloy in the anterior area.

• Zirconium Alloy:

• Advantages: Good aesthetics, color close to natural teeth, high biocompatibility.

• Disadvantages: Relatively brittle, may not be as strong as titanium alloys, and are usually more expensive.

• Stainless steel:

• Advantages: Low cost, suitable for temporary repairs.

• Disadvantages: Poor durability, may cause allergic reactions.

• Composite Materials:

• Advantages: Good aesthetics, suitable for temporary restoration.

• Disadvantages: Poor strength and durability, not recommended for long-term use.

What are the types of implant abutments?

The main types of implant abutments include:

• Straight Abutment: parallel to the implant axis, suitable for most cases.
• Angled Abutment: This is used when the angle of the restoration needs to be adjusted. It is suitable for patients with insufficient bone or unsatisfactory implant position.
• Custom Abutment: Customized according to the patient's specific oral structure to provide the best fit and aesthetics.
• Temporary Abutment: Used for temporary restorations, usually during the healing period of the implant.

How to choose the right abutment?

When choosing the right implant abutment, consider the following factors:

• Implant Type: Make sure the abutment is compatible with the make and model of the implant.
• Prosthesis Type: Select the appropriate abutment type (e.g. straight or angled abutment) depending on the design and position of the final restoration.
• Patient’s oral structure: Consider the patient’s bone volume, gum morphology and occlusal relationship to select the best abutment.
• Aesthetics: In the anterior area, it may be necessary to choose an abutment that is close to the color of natural teeth (such as zirconium alloy).
• Doctor's advice: Communicate with your dentist and listen to their professional opinions and suggestions.

What is the installation process of the implant abutment?

The implant abutment installation process usually includes the following steps:

1. Preoperative evaluation: The doctor will conduct a detailed oral examination and radiographic evaluation to determine the suitability of the implant and abutment.
2. Anesthesia: Before the operation, the doctor will give the patient local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the operation.
3. Abutment Installation: After the implant has healed, the doctor will expose the implant through a small incision and then fix the abutment screw to the implant. This process usually takes a few minutes.
4. Fabrication of the restoration: After the abutment is installed, the doctor will take an impression to make the final crown or other restoration.
5. Fitting of the final restoration: Once the restoration is completed, it will be fixed to the abutment to ensure its stability and functionality.