Aim: The implant/abutment interface represents a crucial element to maintain the structural stability of the implant restoration and to prevent mechanical problems that can compromise the long-term success of the implant treatment.
Methods: In this study deformation of the external hexagonal and internal octagonal extension of 2 implants after applying different values of insertion torque has been tested. The implants were secured in a customized resin baseplate, with the implant neck exposed, then different values of insertion torque were applied by an electronic torque controller.
Results: Five internal octagonal implants were tested for 60 seconds to different torque magnitudes (12 Ncm, 21 Ncm, 27 Ncm, 36 Ncm, 42 Ncm). Two external hexagonal implants were tested for 60 seconds to a torque value of 27 Ncm and of 36 Ncm.
Conclusions: After torquing tests, each implant was examined by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) medium and high magnification to evaluate the deformation of the 2 different antirotational systems. The SEM analysis of the internal octagonal and external hexagonal antirotational systems of the TBR implant showed a deformation proportional to the magnitude of the applied torque during implant insertion. The geometric deformation of the antirotational extension is capable of compromising its function after a torque magnitude of 36 Ncm or superior to this value. Moreover it was demonstrated a more evident alteration of the external hexagonal extension in comparison with the octagonal system after applying a torque value of 27 Ncm.