Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the implant–abutment assembly of Astra Tech (AST), Bego (BEG), Camlog (CAM), Friadent (FRI), Nobel Biocare (NOB) and Straumann (STR) with respect to yield force before and after cyclic fatigue, using a static overload test with a test set-up according to ISO 14801.
Methods: Ten specimens of each type were split into two homogenous groups: one half was tested for static yield force without any further treatment (control), whereas the other one underwent one million cycles of mechanical loading with 100 N as the upper load limit. For load-to-failure testing, specimens were then placed in a stainless steel jig and loaded in a universal testing machine under an angle of 30° with respect to the implant axis until failure. Load–displacement curves were analyzed and the yield forces at which non-linear behaviour set in (Fp) were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and t-test, respectively, with the level of significance set at 0.05.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed that the type of implant–abutment connection has a significant influence on Fp (p < 0.001). Furthermore, dynamic loading proved to significantly influence Fp of BEG and CAM (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: None of the implant–abutment types tested would be expected to fail under clinically relevant forces, but the type of implant–abutment connection significantly influences the yield force Fp.
