Durability evaluation of a friction couple intended for implantological stabilization of complete dentures

The paper presents the results of the study of the titanium implant–elastomeric membrane attachment, conducted from the point of view of potential utilization of the results in forecasting the durability of retention elements representing a new solution of dentures based on implants. The examination was carried out using a device designed by the author, which allowed the simulation of the process of inserting and removing dentures. Titanium counter specimens, simulating implants, were subjected to surface modification through their sandblasting with 350 ěm and 500 ěm abrasives, so as to diversify their roughness. The elastomeric membranes constituting a retention element of the attachment were made of a silicone material, Molloplast B. The influence of the number of cycles (one cycle meaning one insertion and removal of a denture) on the attachment’s retention force was studied. In order to better reflect the natural conditions, the device was equipped with a chamber which made it possible to perform the examination in an artificial saliva environment. The study has shown that the application of the polymer material Molloplast B for constructing the new type retention elements of dentures based on implants ensures practically constant values of the attachment's retention force in the required 6-month utilization period. After the time of denture usage, being eight times longer than originally assumed, the loss of retention force does not exceed 43% in any of the attachments investigated and the retention force values still allow the attachments to operate, although their effectiveness is partly reduced.