Effects of implant abutment CAD/CAM design parameters on subgingival remnant cement

To investigate the remnant cement in the subgingival regions (RCS) of abutments fabricated with different CAD/CAM parameters, including margin curvature radius, convergence angle, top fillet radius, and subgingival abutment shape.

Twelve experimental groups were fabricated to test the following parameters: abutment margin curvature radii of 0.8 mm, 1.2 mm, and 1.6 mm; convergence angles of 4°, 8°, and 12°; top fillet radii of 0.6 mm, 1.0 mm, and 1.4 mm; and subgingival abutment shapes of straight, S-curve, and concave. A constant amount of cement was injected into each crown. Vertical and continuous loads were applied to each specimen using a universal machine. RCS values were measured using a 3D intraoral scanner and an analytical balance. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc Tukey test (α = .05).

Regarding margin curvature radius, RCS values were significantly higher in the order of 1.6 mm, 1.2 mm, and 0.8 mm (P < 0.001). For convergence angle, higher RCS values were observed at 12° > 8° > 4°(P < 0.001). Among subgingival abutment shapes, concave yielded the highest RCS values, followed by S-curve and straight (P < 0.001). No significant differences in RCS values were found among the groups with different top fillet radii (P > 0.05).

Within the limitations of this study, a smaller margin curvature radius, smaller convergence angle, and straight subgingival shape were associated with reduced RCS length, surface area, and weight.