What materials are used in implant restorations?

Zirconia abutments are preferred in the esthetic zone where soft tissue is thin or gingival biotype is translucent, since they eliminate gray show-through at the margin. Titanium abutments are indicated for posterior sites, high occlusal load cases, and when angulation correction or a Ti-base connection to a zirconia superstructure is planned. Send the case with a photo of the tissue and adjacent teeth so the lab can confirm the abutment material selection.

Monolithic zirconia is the default for posterior implant crowns because of its flexural strength and resistance to fracture under parafunctional load. Lithium disilicate is a strong option for anterior single units where translucency and shade matching drive the outcome, provided the occlusal scheme supports it. For screw-retained designs over a Ti-base, both materials can be bonded to the titanium link, and the lab will select minimum thickness based on the restorative space provided.

Immediate and interim All-on-X prostheses are typically milled from PMMA or nano-ceramic hybrid pucks, which provide adequate strength during the healing phase and are easy to adjust chairside. Final prostheses are usually monolithic zirconia over a titanium bar or direct-to-multi-unit zirconia, depending on restorative space, opposing dentition, and the treatment plan. Share the desired conversion timeline when submitting the case so the lab can stage the materials appropriately.

Yes. The implant platform, diameter, and connection type determine which Ti-base, scan body, and library file the lab will use during design. Include the manufacturer, system name, platform size, and multi-unit abutment collar height if applicable. If you are unsure, send a periapical radiograph and the surgical record. Missing system information is one of the most common causes of case delay on implant restorations.

The scan should capture the seated scan body with clear thread detail, the full arch or quadrant with adjacent and opposing teeth, and a bite registration in maximum intercuspation. Include a soft tissue scan taken immediately after removing the healing abutment so the emergence profile can be designed accurately. If a custom healing abutment or provisional was used to shape the tissue, scan that as well and note it in the prescription.