Cement removal from restorations luted to titanium abutments with simulated subgingival margins.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM The process of removing excess cement from subgingival margins after cementation of restorations to implant abutments may lead to scratching of the abutments or incomplete cement removal. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate and to compare the surfaces of abutments after the removal of three cements (glass ionomer, resin, and zinc phosphate) by use of three instruments (gold coated scaler, rigid plastic scaler, and stainless steel explorer). MATERIAL AND METHODS Six investigators removed zinc phosphate, glass ionomer, and resin cements with explorers, gold coated scalers, and rigid plastic scalers with a model simulating clinical conditions. The surface of Brånemark abutments with cemented restorations were examined with a microscope at 20x for scratches and cement remnants. RESULTS Statistical analysis of the results were inconclusive about which combination of instrument and cement worked most effectively. CONCLUSION A surprising amount of cement remnants and scratching of abutments was observed. Although the six investigators were experienced in prosthodontic and implant procedures, there was variation in the results of their cement removal.