Implantological connectors — prosthesis on implants or on Dolder beam

What are implant fasteners?

Implant fasteners are the components that connect the implant screw to the prosthetic complement, usually the crown of an artificial tooth. Their main function is to transfer chewing forces from the complement to the implant.

In addition, the fasteners seal the joint between the implant and the complement, preventing bacteria from entering the implant area and ensuring the stability of the structure. They must be properly selected for the shape of the implant and the complement to ensure aesthetics and functionality.

Choosing the right fastener affects the durability and functionality of the entire implant. It should be adapted to the shape of the implant, the type of replacement and the individual needs of the patient. Implants with well-chosen fasteners are very durable and can serve patients for many years as an effective solution for tooth loss or gum disease.

Types of implant fasteners

There are many types of fasteners, differing in shape, material and method of installation. The most commonly used are:

• Conical Couplers — the most popular, combine a cone implant with a complement. The conical shape allows for a precise fit.
• Cylindrical Couplings — combine a cylindrical implant with a complement, are characterized by a simple design and easy installation.
• Ball couplers — allow free movement of the filling around the implant, used mainly in overdenture prostheses.
• Implant-integrated connectors — form a single, inseparable structure with the implant.
• Dolder beam — a metal cross beam connecting two or more implants, on which a dental prosthesis is fixed.
• Snap Fasteners (Locator) — a system for fixing dentures on implants, ensuring a stable and at the same time easy to remove connection of the prosthesis with the implant.

Materials from which fasteners are made

Implant fasteners are most often made from:

• Titanium — popular material due to biocompatibility, corrosion resistance and durability. Lightweight and durable, although relatively soft, which can affect the wear resistance.
• Titanium Alloys — alloys of titanium with aluminum, vanadium or molybdenum, more resistant to abrasion than pure titanium, retain biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. However, they are heavier.
• Ceramics — biocompatible, hard and resistant to abrasion and corrosion. Ideal for patients allergic to metals, but more prone to cracks.
• PEEK (polyether ether acetone) — thermoplastic polymer with high mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, used as a material for prosthetic fasteners.

Individual or standard connector?

• Standard Fasteners — finished components manufactured in various shapes and sizes according to ISO standards, widely used and easily accessible.
• Individual connectors — designed and performed specifically for a specific patient on the basis of X-rays and computer visualization. Adapted to unique anatomy, used when standard fasteners do not meet the requirements.

The choice depends on the individual needs of the patient and the assessment of the implantologist doctor.

How to choose the optimal fastener?

The choice of the fastener depends on:

• the shape and dimensions of the implant,
• type of prosthetic complement (crown, bridge, prosthesis),
• location of the implant in the oral cavity,
• prosthetic restorative material (ceramics, metal),
• individual needs and preferences of the patient.

The optimal connector ensures the durability and functionality of the implant as well as the patient's comfort and the aesthetics of the complement.

Individual connectors — pros and cons

Advantages:

• Greater freedom in the design of the prosthesis, precise adjustment to the needs of the patient.
• Better aesthetics, more discreet than standard fasteners.
• Higher durability and strength due to high quality materials.

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost than standard fasteners.
• They require greater precision in workmanship to fit perfectly with the implant and prosthesis.

Snap fasteners — pros and cons

Advantages:

• They allow you to easily detach and reattach the prosthesis, which facilitates hygiene and maintenance.
• They allow rapid modifications of prosthetics.
• They can combine different types of implants and prosthetic components, which increases planning flexibility.

Disadvantages:

• They can be less stable than permanent joints, which affects the durability of prosthetics.
• Execution is more complicated, which increases time and costs.
• They require additional maintenance and care for hygiene.