Biologic Debris Retention in Implant Impression Copings, Scan Bodies, and Laboratory Analogs

Capturing implant position in impression-making procedures commonly involves transfer devices, such as implant impression copings and laboratory analogs. These components are intricately machined, including the lumen, and often include additional features for prevention of screw dislodgment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all surfaces in contact with human bodily fluid be disinfected with hospital-grade disinfectant. The ability of these components to harbor biologic contaminant material has not yet been determined, especially with regard to internal configuration, combined with the knowledge that many clinicians and laboratories use a spray disinfectant, which may limit disinfectant contact. The aim of this study was to determine the site and extent of contamination occurring on implant components following clinical impressions and laboratory procedures.

The study design included forensic staining and subsequent analysis of 60 used impression copings, 10 used laboratory analogs, and 10 new components as controls.

Staining was found on 100% of impression copings used in vivo, indicating that biologic material had reached multiple sites on both internal and external surfaces of the components. Staining was also found on the internal aspect of used implant analogs, indicating transfer of biologic material from the impression coping and screw. None of the new control components presented staining at any site. Staining highlighted difficult areas to debride, particularly components with difficult or impossible access for cleaning and disinfection.

Phloxine B staining indicated the ability of biologic material to reach all areas of the implant components. Having demonstrated the difficulty, sometimes impossibility, of accessing areas of these implant components, there is a need to develop protocols to reduce risk of potential transmission of infective material via implant components. Further study is warranted to determine the potential for transmission of infective material due to inadequate disinfection processes of implant componentry.