In vitro assessment of internal implant-abutment connections with different cone angles under static loading using synchrotron-based radiation

Abstract Background The stability of implant-abutment connection is crucial to minimize mechanical and biological complications. Therefore, an assessment of the microgap behavior and abutment displacement in different implant-abutment designs was performed. Methods Four implant systems were tested, three with a conical implant-abutment connection based on friction fit and a cone angle < 12 ° (Medentika, Medentis, NobelActive) and a system with an angulated connection (< 40°) (Semados). In different static loading conditions (30 N − 90º, 100 N − 90º, 200 N − 30º) the microgap and abutment displacement was evaluated using synchrotron-based microtomography and phase-contrast radioscopy with numerical forward simulation of the optical Fresnel propagation yielding an accuracy down to 0.1 μm. Results Microgaps were present in all implant systems prior to loading (0.15–9 μm). Values increased with mounting force and angle up to 40.5 μm at an off axis loading of 100 N in a 90° angle. Conclusions In contrast to the implant-abutment connection with a large cone angle (45°), the conical connections based on a friction fit (small cone angles with < 12°) demonstrated an abutment displacement which resulted in a deformation of the outer implant wall. The design of the implant-abutment connection seems to be crucial for the force distribution on the implant wall which might influence peri-implant bone stability.