Dental implants have become a popular solution for missing teeth, but a common issue is the leftover cement that can cause serious complications. Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Unlike natural teeth, implants lack the protective periodontal ligament, making them more susceptible to bacterial invasion from excess cement. This research explored ways to minimize the amount of leftover cement, or remnant cement in subgingival regions (RCS), to improve the long-term health of dental implants.
Cement-Retained Implants: Advantages and Challenges
Cement-retained implants have several benefits over screw-retained ones, including a more stable occlusal surface and better aesthetics. However, the risk of leftover cement under the gum line is a major drawback. This excess cement can lead to peri-implantitis, a serious gum infection around the implant that can even cause implant failure.
Factors Affecting Remnant Cement
The researchers investigated how different factors influence the amount of RCS:
Crown seating speed: Faster seating speeds led to more cement being pushed under the gums.
Crown seating force: Stronger seating force also increased RCS.
Quantity of cement: Using more cement resulted in more leftover cement.
Type of cement: Certain cement types, like zinc oxide non-eugenol cement, were more prone to creating RCS.
Strategies for Reducing Excess Cement
Based on the findings, the researchers recommend the following strategies to minimize RCS and improve implant health:
– Use a slower, more controlled crown seating speed
– Apply gentler seating force, especially towards the end of the process
– Use the minimum amount of cement necessary, which can be more accurately determined with CAD-CAM technology
– Choose a cement type known to be less prone to creating RCS, such as methacrylate cement
Implications for Dental Professionals
This research provides valuable insights for dental professionals on how to optimize the cementation process for cement-retained implant restorations. By carefully considering the factors that influence RCS, dentists can take steps to reduce the risk of peri-implantitis and other complications associated with excess cement. Ultimately, this helps ensure the long-term health and success of dental implants for patients.
Author credit: This article is based on research by Fanghui Ji, Ji Suk Shim, Jeongyol Lee, Hwiseong Oh, Jae Jun Ryu.
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