Minimizing excess cement in implant-supported fixed restorations using an extraoral replica technique: a prospective 1-year study.

PURPOSE: Cementation of implant-supported restorations poses two major challenges: (1) minimizing excess cement (reducing the risk of peri-implantitis), and (2) establishing sufficient retention (reducing the risk of decementation). This study presents the first data on a clinical cementation technique that might address both problems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2011 and 2013, 39 patients were provided with 52 implants supporting 52 single crowns (SCs). All restorations were cemented extraorally using replicas made of pattern resin and zinc oxide cement. All decementation events and the peri-implant soft tissue status were assessed and compared with those from a group of 29 patients with 40 conventionally cemented SCs (control). RESULTS: In the experimental group, after 12 months, decementation was recorded in three individuals (7.69%) with 3 SCs (5.77%). In the control group, after 12 months, no case of decementation was recorded. No cases of peri-implantitis were detected in either group. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the authors conclude that the use of zinc oxide cement initially establishes sufficient retention of implant-supported fixed restorations independent of conventional or replica cementation techniques.