2000 Volume 13 Issue 2 Pages 444-449
Successful prothodontic treatment is one of the important factors for long-term implantological success. In addressing the subject of implant prothodontics, one must consider not only the occlusal conditions but also the materials of the superstructures.
Recently, castable ceramics has been introduced as biocompatible restorative materials. In particular, β-Ca(PO3)2, which is stable in H2O and acid, possesses similar physical features to tooth enamel. Thus, in the present study, color matching, strength, bone conditions of periimplant tissues, and influence on the oral environment when calcium phosphate derived castable ceramics crowns are used as a superstructures of implant were assessed. The results were as follows:
1. Color matching
Color matching of castable ceramics to natural tooth is better than those of metal and thermosetting resin.
2. Crack
No crack was found in the castable ceramics crowns during the observation period.
3. Influence on antagonist
Antagonistic tooth did not have any clinical changes after constructing superstructures using castable ceramics.
4. Bone resorption
No bone resorption was observed after cementing superstructures using castable ceramics.
The results suggested that the calcium phosphate derived castable ceramics crown may be preferable to other materials as a superstructure of dental implant.
