Evaluation of the Implant Master Cast by Means of the Periotest Method

Abstract

Accurate master casts are essential for the construction of implant-supported prostheses with a precision of fit. The stability of the abutment replicas in the master cast is critical in the accurate reproduction of the patient's oral presentation. The Periotest method is an objective method of quantifying mobility in a tooth and implant. Eighteen gypsum implant master casts containing two brass abutment replicas per cast were evaluated. The abutment replicas were measured three times each for a total of 108 measurements. The mean periotest values and standard deviations were calculated for the master casts and the abutment replicas. The abutment replicas displayed mean periotest values that ranged from +1.3 to -8.0. The study shows that there are significant differences between stable and unstable implant master casts (P = 0.0001, ANOVA-Fisher's protected least significant difference) and abutment replicas (P = 0.0001, Contrast test). The Periotest method will quantify differences in gypsum stone implant master casts as well as the prosthesis supporting brass abutment replicas that are an integral part of the master cast.