Clinical implant dentistry and related research | 2019
Safety and efficacy of a novel anodized abutment on soft tissue healing in Yucatan mini-pigs.
Abstract
BACKGROUND\nIt is well established that electrochemical anodization of implant surfaces contributes to osseointegration and long-term implant survival. Few studies have investigated its effect on soft tissue healing.\n\n\nPURPOSE\nTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel abutment surface prepared by electrochemical oxidation compared to commercially available machined titanium abutments.\n\n\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\nTwelve 16-19\u2009months-old, Yucatan mini-pigs received three dental implants in each mandibular jaw quadrant. Each side was randomized to receive either an anodized or a machined titanium abutment. Titanium healing caps were placed on both abutments. Animals were euthanized at 6 and 13\u2009weeks. Radiographic and histological analyses were performed.\n\n\nRESULTS\nNo significant differences were observed histologically between groups in regard to inflammation, epithelium length, mucosal height, bone-to-implant contact, or bone density for any time point. Radiographically, crestal bone level change from baseline to 6 weeks was significantly lower for anodized than machined abutments (P\u2009=\u20090.046); no significant differences were observed at 13\u2009weeks (P\u2009=\u20090.12).\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nThe novel anodized abutment showed a comparable effect on soft and hard tissue healing/remodeling and inflammation reaction to standard titanium abutments. Clinical studies should confirm these findings and explore the positive radiographic results observed at the early time point.