Implant–Abutment Connection
Also written as: IAC — Implant–Abutment Connection
The mechanical interface between the implant body and the abutment, characterised by its geometric design (e.g., internal or external hex, conical/Morse taper).
Full Definition
The implant–abutment connection (IAC) defines the junction design used to couple the prosthetic abutment to the implant fixture, and significantly affects the biomechanical performance, microbial sealing, and clinical longevity of the restoration. Major connection designs include the external hexagon, internal hexagon, and conical or Morse-taper interfaces. Editors working on comparative studies or product specifications must distinguish between these connection types accurately, as mixing up connection terminology can invalidate comparative data. The IAC also influences screw loosening rates, a common clinical complication reported in retrospective studies. 'Connection type' is often a key variable in systematic reviews of implant failure.
Usage
Usage note: Use an en dash (–) in 'implant–abutment connection' per standard biomedical hyphenation conventions, not a hyphen or em dash.
In Context
- "The study stratified implants by implant–abutment connection type, comparing external hex and conical taper designs over five years." — Systematic review methods
- "A conical implant–abutment connection was selected to minimise microleakage at the prosthetic interface." — Prosthetic planning note