The Conometric Concept: Definitive Fixed Lithium Disilicate Restorations Supported by Conical Abutments

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Fixed partial prostheses are crucial for restoring function and aesthetics in partially edentulous patients.
• Lithium disilicate restorations offer favorable mechanical and aesthetic properties.
• Conical coupling connections provide a stable interface between implants and definitive restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical performance of definitive fixed partial prostheses fabricated with lithium disilicate.
• To assess the efficacy of conical coupling connections in supporting these restorations on implants.
• To analyze outcomes in partially edentulous patients over a three-year follow-up period.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-five patients received fixed lithium disilicate restorations splinted with conical coupling connections to two implants.
• Implants were placed in healed sites and fresh extraction sockets, with prostheses placed after a 3-month healing period.
• Peri-implant bone levels, pocket depths, and USPHS/FDI parameters were assessed annually for three years.

Main Results:

• Two prostheses (3.07%) fractured due to framework design error or accident; three experienced minor chips, which were polished.
• No significant changes in peri-implant bone levels or probing depths were observed over the study duration.
• All prostheses remained securely attached to the implants, with no instances of loosening.

Conclusions:

• Abutment-prostheses conical coupling connections proved successful for supporting lithium disilicate definitive restorations.
• The findings support the use of this system for long-term implant-supported fixed partial prostheses.
• The study indicates a favorable prognosis for lithium disilicate restorations with conical coupling connections in posterior regions.