Impact of Surface Technology and Abutment Design on Implant Placement and Restorative Protocols

Implant manufacturers are constantly striving to develop implants which have physical properties which can initially enhance fixation to the host bone, followed by long term maintenance of bone levels and soft tissue attachment.

The design features are usually created for ideal receptor sites.

However, understanding of the host site anatomy reveals that most implants are not placed into ideal sites. Therefore, how does a clinician know what surgical and restorative protocols will work in synergy with the particular design features of an implant? The use of 3-D imaging technologies allows the clinicians to understand the existing bone topography and qualities prior to implant placement.

This information, combined with interactive treatment planning software provides the clinician with vital information which directs the surgical and restorative abutment protocol to maximize the design features of a given implant.

This presentation will help illustrate the impact of surface technology and abutment design on the desired position of the implant as it relates to the restorative goal, and long term maintenance of surrounding bone and soft tissue.

1. How 3-D Imaging allows for highly detailed diagnosis and planning capabilities.
2. How we can recognize potential implant receptors sites, and choose the appropriate implant position within the bone, and within the restorative envelope
3. Understand how abutment choices can be decided prior to the surgical intervention, and how that improves treatment outcomes.
4. How new technology will impact on the soft tissue - abutment interface.