Techniques to Optimize Color Esthetics, Bonding, and Peri-implant Tissue Health With Titanium Implant Abutments

Compend Contin Educ Dent. 2018 Feb;39(2):110-119.

Abstract

Due to their exceptional biological and mechanical properties, titanium and its alloys are commonly used in both dental implants and implant abutments, upon which prostheses can be attached. The gray color of titanium metal, however, can elicit esthetic problems, as it has the potential to show through a translucent ceramic restorative material. Various solutions have been proposed and used to attempt to overcome esthetic issues associated with titanium. This article describes a simple, economical technique to color titanium abutments and components utilizing anodization, resulting in light reflection and color enhancement through a natural physics phenomenon known as light interference patterns. A technique for improving the bonding capabilities of cement to the abutment is also discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Color*
  • Crowns
  • Dental Abutments*
  • Dental Bonding
  • Electrochemical Techniques*
  • Esthetics, Dental*
  • Humans
  • Titanium*

Substances

  • Titanium