Comparative analysis of biofilm formation on dental implant abutments with respect to supra- and subgingival areas: polytetrafluoroethylene versus titanium.

The aim of the present in vivo study was to examine the effect of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surfaces on biofilm formation on dental implant abutments in comparison to titanium surfaces. Fifteen modified abutments with incorporated PTFE plates were inserted in 10 patients for 14 days. Scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to examine biofilm formation on different surfaces and to determine the percentage of surface coverage. Significantly less biofilm was detected on PTFE surfaces than on titanium surfaces. The results of this study reveal that PTFE surfaces reduce biofilm formation to a minimum on dental implant abutments. Int J Prosthodont 2011;24:373-375.