The Conometric Concept: Definitive Rehabilitation of a Single Posterior Implant Using a Friction Retention Abutment. A 1-year Follow-up Report

Abstract

Purpose: To provide a 1-year assessment of friction-retention abutments (Acuris, Dentsply Sirona) used to retain a single lithium disilicate (LS₂) monolithic restoration.

Materials and methods: A total of 522 implants were placed to treat single-tooth premolar and molar edentulous sites in the mandible or maxilla. Three types of implants were used. The tested abutments were connected 3 months after implant placement. A single pressed LS₂ monolithic restoration was cemented to a dedicated titanium cap and engaged to the abutment without the use of screws or cement. Any complications affecting the restoration or the opposing dentition, soft tissue dimensional changes, the distance between the implant platform and the bone peak, and pocket probing depths were recorded at the time of restoration placement (T0), after 6 months of function (T1), and after 1 year of function (T2). Esthetic, functional, and biologic parameters were recorded at T0 and T2.

Results: A total of 507 patients (284 women and 223 men) received a restoration (T0), and 504 of them reached the T2 1-year follow-up. One restoration fractured after 10 months in function. No statistically significant difference was assessed in the soft tissue measurements or in the measurements of the distance between the supporting implant platform and the bone peak. None of the restorations detached during the observation period.

Conclusion: The friction retention abutment is a viable option to retain an implant-supported monolithic LS₂ glass-ceramic restoration in cases of premolar or molar single-tooth edentulism.