Where is it especially important?
In the smile area and with thin gums, the metal abutment gives a bluish-gray tint along the edge of the gum, which is noticeable when speaking. The zirconium abutment is light and does not create this problem. Additionally, zirconium is well tolerated by soft tissues: the gums adhere tightly to it, reducing the risk of inflammation around the implant.
What is an abutment
An abutment is a transitional link between the implant, which is located in the bone, and the crown, which is visible in the mouth. It is he who sets the inclination, height and profile of the crown coming out of the gums.
The standard abutment has a standard shape and is not always suitable. An individual one is made for a specific clinical situation - taking into account the thickness of the gums, the position of the implant and the shape of the adjacent teeth.
When is a custom abutment needed?
- the implant is installed at an angle relative to the future crown
- smile zone, where the natural contour of the gums is important
- thin or, conversely, thick gum biotype
- the need to support the gingival papilla between the teeth
Materials
The zirconium abutment is light, does not show through thin gums and is well suited for front teeth. Cast metal is stronger and cheaper, and is more often used in the chewing area, where aesthetics are less critical.