Safety and efficacy of a novel anodized abutment on soft tissue healing in Yucatan mini-pigs.

BACKGROUND: It is well established that electrochemical anodization of implant surfaces contributes to osseointegration and long-term implant survival. Few studies have investigated its effect on soft tissue healing. PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel abutment surface prepared by electrochemical oxidation compared to commercially available machined titanium abutments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve 16-19 months-old, Yucatan mini-pigs received three dental implants in each mandibular jaw quadrant. Each side was randomized to receive either an anodized or a machined titanium abutment. Titanium healing caps were placed on both abutments. Animals were euthanized at 6 and 13 weeks. Radiographic and histological analyses were performed. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed histologically between groups in regard to inflammation, epithelium length, mucosal height, bone-to-implant contact, or bone density for any time point. Radiographically, crestal bone level change from baseline to 6 weeks was significantly lower for anodized than machined abutments (P = 0.046); no significant differences were observed at 13 weeks (P = 0.12). CONCLUSIONS: The novel anodized abutment showed a comparable effect on soft and hard tissue healing/remodeling and inflammation reaction to standard titanium abutments. Clinical studies should confirm these findings and explore the positive radiographic results observed at the early time point.