Editorial Type:
Article Category: Research Article
 | 
Online Publication Date: 01 Oct 2003

Implant Screw Mechanics and the Settling Effect: An Overview

DDS,
DMD,
DMD, and
DMD
Page Range: 242 – 245
DOI: 10.1563/1548-1336(2003)029<0242:ISMATS>2.3.CO;2
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Abstract

One of the most serious and prevalent problems associated with the restorative aspect of dental implants is loosening and fracturing of screws. Implant screws should be retightened 10 minutes after the initial torque application as a routine clinical procedure to help compensate for the settling effect. Mechanical torque gauges should be used instead of hand drivers to ensure consistent tightening of implant components to torque values recommended by implant manufacturers.

Copyright: American Academy of Implant Dentistry
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