Implant-supported titanium framework: photoelastic analysis before and after spark erosion procedure

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study used a photoelastic analysis to evaluate the passive fit of titanium cast laserwelding frameworks before and after spark erosion procedure. Methods: A stainless steel castwas used in order to reproduce a human mandible. Five Multi-Unit abutment analogs wereattached to this cast and 6 frameworks were produced in commercial pure titanium. The cast wasmolded and a photoelastic matrix was produced incorporating 5 dental implants with Multi-Unitabutments. All samples were subjected to a laser welding. The precision of adjustments within arange of 0.5 ìm was evaluated under microscope observation. The best fitted framework wasselected and subjected to a photoelastic analysis (Group I). The tightening of the screws was in 3predetermined sequences (1,2,3,4,5/ 5,4,3,2,1/ 3,2,4,1,5). Then the same framework wassubjected to a refinement by spark erosion technique (Group II) and evaluated by photoelasticanalysis. Results: The sequence (3,2,4,1,5) achieved better results in both groups. A largernumber of fringes were observed around the median implants in all sequences in both groups.Conclusions: The titanium cast laser welded frameworks processes associated with spark erosionprocedure improves significantly the marginal framework adaptation and is effective for its passive fit.