Abstract:

Dental implants are one of the most common ways to replace a missing tooth. Many treatment options that involve dental implants has been successfully implemented in replacing single and multiple point teeth including edentulous jaw. As the dental implant market continues growing, investments in advancing the technology is increasing. Latest statistics published by Straumann, one of the leading dental implant suppliers, show that the implant dentistry accounts for approximately 15% amongst the all restoration methods in dental industry. In addition, global dental industry is expected to reach up to 13$ dollars by the year 2023. Another prediction is stated by American College of Prosthodontists is that the number of edentulous people will continue to increase. Restoration process that involves dental implants are generally completed with 4 different parts: implant, abutment, implant screw and crown. Hybrid Manufacturing Technology which is covered in this paper focuses on production of abutments which can be seen in different forms such as single abutment units, bridge abutments, bars etc. Increase in number of people who need implant restoration also increases the number of abutments to be produced. Thus, Hybrid Technology improvement for the manufacturing processes of abutments are required. This optimization comes with financial and technical advantages and disadvantages. This paper explains potentials, new areas which are not available with conventional abutments manufacturing technology or difficult to use (not environment friendly and limited to casting technology) and the cost effectiveness of Hybrid Manufacturing Technology which is used for production of abutments for implant restorations.