The use of angled abutments in implant dentistry : Clinical results of an ongoing 5-year prospective study

Aim of the study

This prospective study reports the preliminary results after 5 years (mean observation period 28.8 months), concerning the outcome of functional implants, supporting restorations on angled abutments.

Materials and methods

2261 implants (67 % mandibular, 33 % maxillary) were placed in 467 patients (mean age 49.6 years) with the intention of supporting fixed or removable prostheses. One group was identified as having abutments angled at 0° to 15° and another group with abutments of 20° to 45°. Clinical examination only was carried out at follow up visits at 1, 3 and 6 months following loading and radiographic examinations were added at 12, 18 and 24 months and then every 2-3 years.

Results

The majority of implants were of standard diameter (3.75 mm) and of length greater than 10 mm. The survival rate after 5 years, according to the authors, was 98.6 % and an analysis showed identical results for both the 0°-15° group and the 20°-45° group.

Conclusions

Although these are preliminary results, they are very encouraging in connection with angled abutments (even very angled). The advantages of these abutments lie in facilitating the treatment planning, especially the surgical phase and the ability to select larger implants.