Titanium nitride (TiN) coated abutments are set to revolutionise the work of abutment placing, providing patients with a more reliable, durable, and esthetically pleasing solution. In addition, TiN coatings have significantly improved the wear resistance and chemical inertness of metallic dental implants. This testing process proved to make them an ideal choice for attachment abutments and narrow healing abutments, which are used to provide retention and stability for removable prostheses supported by the implants.
By incorporating TiN coatings into abutments, dentists and patients can benefit from a host of advantages. Firstly, TiN coatings offer wear resistance, which translates into greater longevity of the prosthetic device. This is particularly important for patients who may put excessive pressure on their prostheses due to grinding or clenching their teeth. TiN coatings also provide excellent chemical inertness, which reduces the likelihood of corrosion and ensures that the abutment remains structurally sound over time. With the introduction of TiN coatings, patients can now benefit from a more natural-looking prosthetic that provides greater functionality, stability, and confidence.
Modifications for better use
Attachment systems for implant-supported overdentures typically use frictional retention between the patrices and matrices to ensure stability. However, this raises concerns over wear and tear, which could lead to a loss of retention and a decrease in the stability of the overdenture. Wear can also generate debris released into the oral environment, increasing the risk of peri-implant diseases, infections, and even implant loss. To address this issue, our Research and Development team worked to develop and improve dental abutment surface, including anti-wear coatings like TiN.
Outstanding TiN properties
TiN coatings have excellent anti-wear performance, chemical inertness, and biocompatibility. In addition, multiple studies have shown that TiN is a biocompatible material with a low coefficient of friction, reducing the release of metallic ions from the substrate to the organism. TiN coatings also have improved corrosion resistance, acting as a physical barrier between the substrate and the surrounding environment, which reduces the release of wear particles.
The mechanical properties of TiN-coated titanium are also superior to conventional titanium alloy, with 10 times higher hardness, which corresponds to better wear resistance, more than 1.5 times higher retention forces, and similar fracture resistance. Additionally, the TiN coating has a golden hue that is aesthetically pleasing and overcomes the grey color of conventional titanium, which can cause tissue discoloration when not adequately masked by soft tissue at the gingival margin. TiN coatings have also been shown to have antibacterial properties, reducing early bacterial colonization and biofilm formation, which is critical in implant longevity.
What’s next?
ROOTT R attachment type abutments will be the first to receive the TiN coating and are planned to be released to the market in May. The narrow healing abutments release date will be announced shortly.
In addition, customers can expect the visual change of narrow type ROOTT P and ROOTT M healing abutments as their original pink colour will be changed to have a golden hue. ROOTT R abutments and ROOTT S healing abutments are initially gold-colour anodized, so TiN coating wouldn’t affect their visual properties.
In conclusion, TiN-coated abutments are a game-changer in the continuous upgrades we develop, providing patients with a more reliable, durable, and esthetically pleasing solution. With their excellent wear resistance, chemical inertness, biocompatibility, and antibacterial properties, TiN coatings are the ideal choice for attachment abutments and narrow healing abutments. Patients can now benefit from a more secure and stable prosthetic that offers improved functionality and a natural appearance, ensuring greater satisfaction and confidence.