P E E K at Implant Abutment Interface I A I

Abstract

An important consideration when choosing an implant system is the Implant Abutment Connection Interface. Polyetheretherketone is a promising substitute as abutments. This article aims to explore the characteristics of the IACI in PEEK abutments by investigating and comparing the tribocorrosion behavior of titanium implants paired with either PEEK or titanium abutments, as well as to assess microleakage at the implant abutment interface in titanium implants with PEEK abutments. Titanium implants featuring an 11 degree tapered conical connection with PEEK and Titanium abutments were chosen for the study. Open circuit potential and coefficient of friction measurements revealed that titanium implants with PEEK displayed stable and lower values as compared to that of titanium abutments. Wear surface analysis showed greater deterioration in titanium abutments, with visible wear patterns, while PEEK abutments showed smoother surfaces with minor grooves aligned with the sliding direction. Results of microleakage analysis indicated that under normal occlusal loads, no microleakage was observed in either titanium or PEEK abutment samples. But when occlusal loads exceeds the maximum range, PEEK abutments fractured, leading to microleakage, while titanium abutments didn t show leakage exhibiting a higher fracture resistance. Overall, we can conclude that, while PEEK showed potential in implant systems, further studies are required to assess in depth the durability and biocompatibility in clinical trials