Clinical efficacy of the Vector system in excess cement removal during fixed prosthodontic treatment

Objective: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the Vector system (Dürr Dental) in excess cement removal from subgingival margins during fixed prosthodontic treatment. Method and Materials: A total of 41 subjects, each in need of a minimum of 2 metal-ceramic crowns in different quadrants, took part in this study. Altogether, 156 abutment teeth were randomly assigned into 2 groups: In one group, excess cement was removed with the Vector system after cementation of provisional and permanent restorations, while in the other group, handheld instruments were used for this procedure. The clinical parameters Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), and probing pocket depth (PPD) were recorded at baseline, at the same appointment after cementation of provisional restorations, 2 weeks later after cementation of permanent restorations, and 3 weeks after final cementation. Results: Both the Vector system and the handheld instruments were able to reduce PPD and PI significantly at 2 and 5 weeks, but no significant differences could be demonstrated between the groups. Regarding GI, significant reductions were found at 2 and 5 weeks for the Vector group (P .001), whereas for the handheld instrument group, the only significant difference could be demonstrated at 5 weeks (P = .001). Significant differences between the groups occurred at 2 weeks (P = .003) and 5 weeks (P = .002), with the Vector group having the greatest reduction in GI. Conclusion: Although similar reductions in Plaque Index and probing pocket depths were observed with both the Vector system and handheld instruments, the Vector system produced a significantly greater benefit in reducing Gingival Index. Keywords: excess cement removal, gingival health, Vector system