Zirconia Abutments for Single-Tooth Implants—Rationale and Clinical Guidelines
Clinical success of an endosseous implant to replace a single tooth is not only defined by its survival. Esthetic parameters have become integral aspects in defining success and failure. All-ceramic abutments have started to play a major role in achieving an esthetically successful result. The material itself, however, is not the exclusive determinant for esthetic success. It is the appropriate design and proper handling of the material and the abutment that enables the clinician to achieve esthetic outcomes that were not possible with traditional metal alloys. This article explores the rationale for using zirconia for prosthetic implant components, explains specific material properties, and discusses strategies and guidelines for the design and successful clinical implementation of CAD/CAM-fabricated zirconia implant abutments.
⁎Professor of Restorative Dentistry, Chairman, Department of Preventive and Restorative Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
†Director of Dental Laboratory Technology, Department of Preventive and Restorative Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
‡Associate Professor, Department of Prosthodontics, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr Blatz: Robert Schattner Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, 240 S 40th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Dr Blatz has received research contracts and/or grants from Nobel Biocare, Etkon/Straumann, Heraeus Kulzer, 3M ESPE, Noritake, Kuraray, Coltene Whaledent, and Ivoclar Vivadent. Dr Bergler has received research contracts and/or grants from Etkon/Strauman, Nobel Biocare, Noritake, and 3M ESPE. Dr Holst has received honoraria from Nobel Biocare. Dr Block states no financial arrangement or affiliation with a corporate organization or a manufacturer of a product discussed in this article.
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