Introduction: This experimental laboratory study aimed to evaluate the surface
roughness (Ra and Rz) and the shape of surface topography (Rsk) following
two different types of surface instrumentation. Method: Twenty-one
MegaGenĀ® implant abutments were divided into three different groups. In
group 1, the abutments were left un-instrumented as a control, in group 2,
rubber cups with pumice were used or treated and in group 3, the
instrumentation was done using Er, Cr: YSGG laser with a wavelength of
2780nm, 1.5W power setting with the pulse repetition rate of 30Hz and
applied using a radical firing perio tip for two minutes. Quantitative and
qualitative evaluations were done using a profilometer. Results: Results
showed no significant differences in Ra value among the tested groups
whereas the significant differences in Rz value were observed among all
treated groups (p<0.05) as the p-value equal to 0.02 and 0.01 in pumice-laser
and control-laser groups respectively. The shape of 3D surface topography
(Rsk) was found to be the same in the laser-treated and control groups, with
the presence of more valley, lesser peak and the possibility of deep scratches
Er, Cr: YSGG laser produced rougher abutment surface and able to maintain
manufacturer lines, in comparison with the control group. Conclusions: In
contrast, rubber cups and pumice could produce smoother surface outcomes.
Keywords: Dental implant, surface roughness, profilometer, Er, Cr: YSGG
laser
