Effect of Different Cementation Techniques on Retained Excess Cement and Uniaxial Retention of the Implant-Supported Prosthesis: An In Vitro Study

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the different techniques of cementation (half filling, practice abutment, and venting) that will reduce the amount of retained cement and the effect of these techniques on retention of implant-supported prostheses. Materials and Methods: Thirty implant-abutment assemblies were prepared and were subdivided further into three groups: half filling, practice abutment, and venting techniques. Crowns were prepared for each sample and cemented according to the respective techniques. The retention values were then determined using a universal testing machine, and the net weight of the retained cement was determined using a digital scale. Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests revealed that there was not a significant difference in the retention values of the three cementation techniques, but a significant difference was observed in the amount of retained excess cement. Tukey honestly significant difference tests further showed that there was a significant difference in retained excess cement between the half-filling technique vs the venting and practice abutment techniques. Conclusion: The venting and practice abutment techniques are suitable methods for reducing retained excess cement with optimal retention values. Keywords: dental implant, cementation, venting, practice abutment, retention, residual cement