ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the microleakage at titanium implant abutment and titanium implant zirconia abutment interface under 20 n and 30 n torque. Background: The amount of bacterial infiltration between the implants and the abutments depends on the materials, the fit accuracy between the pieces and tightening torque applied to the connected components which may ultimately lead to peri-implantitis and bone loss around this area. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 titanium implants were taken and divided into two groups, Group A consisting of 30 titanium implant and abutments and Group B consisting of 30 titanium implants with zirconia abutments. These groups were further classified into four subgroups of 15 titanium implant abutment screwed with a torque of 20 Ncm; 15 titanium implant abutment screwed with a torque of 30 Ncm; 15 titanium implant with zirconia abutment screwed with a torque of 20 Ncm; and 15 titanium implant with zirconia abutment screwed with a torque of 30 Ncm. The sterilized implants were assembled and then inserted in sterile brain heart infusion broth tubes inoculated with Enterococcus. The tubes were incubated for 24 h, 48 h, 120 h, and 7 days. The entire apparatus was removed from the tubes, dried aseptically and placed in 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 20 min again dried aseptically; dismantled and put in sterile brain heart infusion broth tubes, incubated for 48 h and assessed for microbial growth. Results: Data will be subjected to statistical analysis by Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA test and Mann–Whitney U-test. Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present study, it may be concluded that the connection design and type of abutment material affect the microbiological sealing capability and marginal fit of abutments. The zirconia abutments with an internal conical connection seem to be more resistant to bacterial leakage.
KEYWORDS:Microleakage, Dental implant, Torquing forces.