Current research: zirconia implant abutments can use further research
By Gordon J. Christensen, DDS, MSD, PhD
A systematic review of the literature showed 380 articles on the subject. Only a few reports met the authors’ requirements for inclusion in the conclusions below.
The articles showed that zirconia abutments were reliable in the anterior portion of the mouth from both biologic and mechanical standpoints. Some clinical follow-up articles suggested that zirconia could function without fracture and peri-implant lesions.
The authors stated, “Based on the reviewed literature, zirconia has the potential to be used as a dental abutment material, although some issues have to be studied further.”
Nakamura K, Kanno T, Milleding P, et al. Zirconia as a dental implant abutment material: a systematic review. Int J Prosthodont. 2010; 23(4):299-309.
Dr. Gordon Christensen comments: There are still some reservations about the use of zirconia as implant abutments. My conclusion is to use it primarily when the abutment must pass through 3 mm or more of gingiva, thereby disallowing adequate cement removal. Also, zirconia abutments can provide a better esthetic result in such situations.
Gordon J. Christensen Guide for Preferred Clients Mar./Apr. 2011; Vol. 16 Issue 2
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Author bio
Dr. Gordon Christensen is a practicing prosthodontist in Provo, Utah, and a diplomate for the American Board of Prosthodontics. He is the founder and director of Practical Clinical Courses, an international continuing education organization initiated in 1981 for dental professionals. Dr. Christensen is a cofounder (with his wife, Rella) and senior consultant of CLINICIANS REPORT (formerly Clinical Research Associates), which has conducted research in all areas of dentistry since 1976. Dr. Christensen is an adjunct professor for Brigham Young University and the University of Utah.
