Determining the size of the impression coping can be a topic of debate, with some asserting that it should match the diameter of the implant fixture, while others argue that the impression coping’s diameter plays a minimal role in the final restoration outcome. This confusion is compounded by the fact that some implant manufacturers offer a single diameter option for impression copings.
Before delving into a method for choosing the appropriate size of impression coping, it is crucial to address the purpose and selection of the healing abutment first.
The healing abutment serves to establish a natural/physiological emergence profile for the final restoration, and choosing the appropriate length and diameter should be guided by the patient’s gingival thickness, desired outcome appearance, and characteristics such as amount/zone of keratinized tissue Healing abutments extending 1-2 mm above the gingival level after healing is often considered optimal length. It’s noteworthy that the diameter of both the healing abutment and the final abutment is not solely determined by the implant fixture size; rather, it is influenced by the dento-gingival dimensions of the teeth to be restored and the relationship between adjacent teeth in most cases.
Choosing the correct size healing abutment plays a pivotal role in achieving the balance between esthetically and functionally pleasing final restoration. Opting for a smaller than optimal healing abutment for the particular case may result in an unbalanced crown appearance, while a larger than optimal one lead to potential gumline defects.
To deliver and secure a natural emergence profile, after utilizing appropriate healing abutments, it is crucial to select the corresponding size impression coping with the corresponding healing abutments.
In essence, sending accurate data regarding the emergence profile to the laboratory is integral to delivering a satisfying prosthesis. Therefore, it is important to recognize that the choice of impression coping diameter is influenced by the size of a healing abutment which is not determined by the fixture’s size, but, rather, by the anticipated shape of the final prothesis. The diameter of the impression coping acts as a vital guide for the final abutment and prosthesis, ensuring optimal fit and results.
DENTIS address this concern by offering four different diameter impression coping options in both transfer and pick-up types, (Please refer to the next topic of impression coping selection) along with four varying size of healing abutments. This comprehensive range ensures precise final outcome, satisfying both patients and practitioners.
