Implant Abutment Torque
The rotational force, measured in Newton-centimetres, applied when tightening an abutment screw onto a dental implant to achieve proper seating and prevent loosening.
Full Definition
Implant abutment torque is the specified tightening force, expressed in Newton-centimetres (Ncm), used to seat an abutment securely onto an implant fixture. Each implant manufacturer specifies a recommended torque value that balances secure mechanical retention against the risk of screw fracture. In dental laboratory documentation, torque values may appear on laboratory prescriptions, dispatch notes, and clinical instructions included with the finished prosthesis. Editors reviewing such documents should ensure that torque values are expressed in Ncm (not Nm) and that the figure matches the implant system specified in the case details.
Usage
Usage note: Express torque values in Ncm (Newton-centimetres), not Nm. Always verify the torque value matches the implant system named in the case documentation.
In Context
- "The dispatch note specified an implant abutment torque of 35 Ncm in accordance with the manufacturer's protocol." — Laboratory dispatch note
- "Ensure that 'Ncm' is used consistently throughout the document rather than the incorrect abbreviation 'nM'." — Copyediting annotation