Protecting critical connection sites of a custom cast abutment with a protector cap during fabrication

Abstract

Custom castable abutments with metal bases can be waxed and cast. However, the devesting stage may damage the milled metal base when airborne-particle abrasion is used. This may affect the abutment-to-implant joint, as well as the screw seat. Either of these can result in an improper connection that may produce a negative effect on joint performance. This technique describes the use of a computer-aided design and computer-aided manufactured zirconia protector cap and peg, placed before investing, that shield against airborne-particle damage during devesting.