The Type Of Dental Implant Connection - A Brief Comparison

The type of dental implant Connection -
While the progress of reconstructive and restorative dentistry has moved by leaps and bounds over the past decades, there are still heated debates around the ideal dental implant connection types. All of the major manufacturers have their preferred method for joining the screw to the replacement tooth. Some rule out one particular method because it may allow vibration or screw loosening, while others select their preferred dental implant connection type as a means of delivering a better pitch or angle to the replacement tooth. The major varieties include:

Internal Hex connectors – any kind of dental implant will require the “fusion” of the screw to the tooth, and the internal hex design is noted for providing a more natural appearance to the prosthetic tooth because the interior mechanism actually forces the tooth deeper into the connection. Additionally, this type of dental implant connection is considered a bit more stable, eliminating or reducing stress on the cold weld as well as any potential for rotation to occur. Some professionals suggest that positioning is a bit more flexible with the internal hex connectors, but that is a subject still under debate.

In addition to standard internal hex connectors there are also those enabled with a “friction fit” capability that completely eliminates any rotational capability of the devices. Currently some of the major dental implant system manufacturers using the internal hex connection types are Nobel Biocare, LifeCore and Zimmer.

External Hex connectors – the original format for all dental implant connection, external hex connection devices had to be modified to prevent rotation and improve stability. They were also frequently required to be “refitted” due to rotational issues. They are still in use widely, and some of the major dental implant companies include Biomet 3i, Bicon Dental Implants and Innova.

Internal Octagon connectors – The internal octagon connectors are considered one of the surest approaches to eliminating the adverse effects of force distribution on the prosthetic and the implant screw. The structures are thought to reduce fatigue over the long-term, and to allow for a stronger tightening procedure between the prosthetic and implant. Major producers of octagon connectors include Advance Dental and Nobel biocare.

There are many professional discussions around the optimal type of dental implant connection , but interestingly each style offers its own benefits, or “downside”. For example, if angle or space is a concern, one style of connector may provide a better solution than another. It is strictly a matter of the needs of the patient, and the professional experience of the dental specialist.

Return from Type Of Dental Implant Connection back to Dental Implant Types