Do Sealing Materials Influence Superstructure Attachment in Implants?

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the possible effect of sealing materials on superstructure attachment (ie, tightening/loosening torque and implant-abutment gap) in two different implant systems. Materials and Methods: A silicone, a chlorhexidine gel, and an industrial lubricant were tested. A 3D microscope was used for assessment of the implant-abutment gap, and the abutment screw was tightened and loosened with a digital torque screwdriver. A total of 20 implants per test group (10 BEGO Semados RI and 10 Nobel Biocare Replace Select Straight) were evaluated. Results: The tested sealing materials did not influence the gap between implant and abutment, but the force necessary for loosening the abutment screws decreased significantly. Conclusion: Sealing materials may be useful against bacteria, but probably influence torque negatively.