Comparison of early bacterial colonization of PEEK and titanium healing abutments using real%time PCR

PEEK (polyetheretherketone) is a synthetic polymer with high biomechanical strength and inert chemical properties, which make it attractive for use in industrial and medical applications (for review see Kurtz & Devine 2007). Healing abutments made of commercially pure titanium have been the “gold standard” in dental implant care for many years. Wound healing studies have documented the formation of a healthy mucosal barrier adhering to the titanium abutment surface after abutment connection (e.g. Berglundh et al 1991). Yet, it has been shown that peri-implant pockets are colonized by bacteria, including periodontal pathogens, already within 2 weeks after abutment connection (Koka et al 1993, Quirynen et al 2006). 6 e Neoss implant system off ers both titanium and PEEK healing abutments.