Changes in implant abutment topography following surface instrumentation

Introduction: This experimental laboratory study aimed to evaluate the surface roughness (Ra and Rz) and the shape of surface topography (Rsk) following two different types of surface instrumentation.Method: Twenty-one MegaGen® implant abutments were divided into three different groups.In group 1, the abutments were left un-instrumented as a control, in group 2, rubber cups with pumice were used or treated and in group 3, the instrumentation was done using Er, Cr: YSGG laser with a wavelength of 2780nm, 1.5W power setting with the pulse repetition rate of 30Hz and applied using a radical firing perio tip for two minutes.Quantitative and qualitative evaluations were done using a profilometer.Results: Results showed no significant differences in Ra value among the tested groups whereas the significant differences in Rz value were observed among all treated groups (p<0.05) as the p-value equal to 0.02 and 0.01 in pumice-laser and control-laser groups respectively.The shape of 3D surface topography (Rsk) was found to be the same in the laser-treated and control groups, with the presence of more valley, lesser peak and the possibility of deep scratches Er, Cr: YSGG laser produced rougher abutment surface and able to maintain manufacturer lines, in comparison with the control group.Conclusions: In contrast, rubber cups and pumice could produce smoother surface outcomes.