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Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of customized
ceramic single-implant abutments in combination with two different techniques for
fabricating crowns. Materials and Methods: Twenty consecutive patients were provided
with 24 single-implant restorations with customized ceramic abutments. The restorations
were either cemented to the abutment (n = 13) or fabricated with the veneering material
fused directly onto the ceramic abutment (n = 11). The patients were evaluated at 6 and 12
months with radiographs and clinical parameters for complications and soft tissue response.
Results: All implants and restorations were still in function after 1 year. Few clinical
problems were reported during the follow-up period. The interproximal soft tissue
recovered to near normal size. The mean marginal bone loss was similar for both groups,
reaching an average of 0.3 mm (SD 0.71) after 1 year in function. Conclusion: The shortterm
results indicate that customized ceramic abutments are successful and have
comparable function, regardless of fabrication method. Int J Prosthodont 2003;16:626–630.
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