The abutment duplication technique: a novel protocol for cementable implant-supported restorations

Area of Science:

• Dental materials science
• Prosthodontics
• Laboratory techniques

Background:

• Cementable implant-supported restorations require precise fabrication.
• Reducing clinical chair time is crucial for patient and clinician efficiency.
• Indirect fabrication methods ensure accuracy but can be time-consuming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel laboratory technique for cementable implant-supported restorations.
• To evaluate the technique's efficacy in reducing clinical chair time.
• To maintain the precision of indirect crown fabrication.

Main Methods:

• A working cast's implant portion was duplicated using double-pour or plastic base die systems.
• A flask for ceramic inlays/onlays was adapted for duplication using addition silicon and polyurethane resin.
• Duplicate implant abutments were used for finalizing restorations after initial delivery.

Main Results:

• Fifty abutments were tested, with 19 single crowns and 31 fixed partial dentures fabricated.
• Two prosthodontists and two dental technicians evaluated 48 restorations.
• A 98% success rate was achieved, with 48 restorations rated "good" and 2 "acceptable".

Conclusions:

• The presented laboratory technique is effective and predictable.
• It significantly reduces clinical sessions for delivering precise implant-supported restorations.
• The method maintains high standards of fit and marginal integrity.