Multi Unit Abutment

 Multi unit abutment are the abutments that dentists prefer to link many implants collectively to create an impression of a bridge. Also, these can adjust either full arch replacements or zygomatic dental implants. Many termed these as " All-On-Four Dental Implants".

In 2000, the actual "Nobel Biocare MUA" was created. Of course, the dentist industry was experiencing it for the very first time. Henceforth it is an ideal option and others have tried their best to replicate its unique design. Its exceptional design elements are the main reason that makes it the only choice for professionals to pick. Coming back to knowing what MUA is- lets' first have a glance at what an abutment is?

What is an Abutment?

An abutment is simply the crown base; generally of metal. There are many dentists who use it while completing the dental implant installation. You can call it the connector; one component is connected with the jawbone; however, the other side has crown connectivity.

Usually, Titanium is used to create it. Though, gold and zirconia are also options in the creation of MUA. From all these, Zirconia is gaining popularity. The reason is its color similarity with basic teeth. Hence, there is less or no visibility within the mouth comparatively.

In the process of correcting the screw-held implant prosthesis case, restoration problems can occur. There could be fewer inconsistencies in implant interface access. Here, Multi Unit Abutments (MUA) is a helping hand! It has extensive angular corrections and almost every implant platform can access it.

Various types of MUA

Fundamentally, its categorization is into two types:

  • Straight
  • Angled/ Angulated

The choice of any of the above depends on the different options to boost function and mobility after amputation. This process is termed Prosthetic Rehabilitation.

Straight MUA

It provides screw prosthetic solutions that follow the process of placing the implants at a smaller difference of up to 40°.

Angled or Angulated MUA

Its usage is when there is a requirement for angular correction and when the implant body lies at significantly different angles from 75° to 100°. In general, Angled Multi Unit Abutments give three choices:

  • 9° Angled; used by coordinating with implants considering the divergence ranges till 55°
  • 17°or 18° Angled; used by coordinating with implants considering the divergence ranges till 75°
  • 30° Angled; used by coordinating with implants considering the divergence ranges till 100°

Multi Unit Abutment results are a favorable option for those who require an “All-on-6” or “All-on-4” procedure to place implants. Angulated MUA has a major role to complete the procedure successfully.

In the “All-on-4” process, the four dental implants support prosthetic teeth on every arch. Then, at a particular angle of divergence, the implants support the implant-supported prosthesis and distribute the manduction forces on every plane evenly. So, Angulated supports additional differences which are not possible with conventional abutments.

Why is MUA placement needed?

The typical reason the professional dentist advises Multi Unit Abutment placement is when there are inconsistencies in their teeth. When the dentist places the MUAs at various angles, restoration is maintained. Also, an Implant Osteotomy drill is used for diameter enhancement. It makes a hole for the dental implant; however, lessens bone damage risk.

The next reason in the list is the height differences. To do so, the lower implants have to be above tissue and higher on the deeper bones. Practicing this not only assures the ultimate product with a smooth and shiny look but, the restoration balance also distributes the force evenly. The method eases speaking and eating, also, ensuring the restoration lasts for a long time.

How does Multi Unit Abutment work?

Several dentists place MUA in surgical appointments only and restore the denture in the implanted prosthesis. It is nicely functioned by placing the right MUA and arranging the prosthesis to MUA.

Also, if you do not want to load the implants quickly, it is forever a good idea to place MUA supports before the first impression when starting the recovery process.

If you start the impression procedure by placing MUA and accept the impressions at a multi-level level, not on an implant level, then, there is an increase in the final prosthesis accuracy.

Benefits of Multi Unit Abutment

The great advantage of MUA is getting the bridge edge nearer to the surface and letting the dentist perform the process easily. For pterygoid dental implants, it works satisfactorily.

Other than this:

  • There will be a predictable and simple seat for the last restoration.
  • You will experience less stress that changes into a regenerative system because of the stagnant behavior of the seating method of MUA.
  • Moreover, replacing and removing the prosthesis every time becomes easy.
  • Simply, the dentists place the dental implants in the jaw, and it does not require sinus life. Consequently, it saves money and time.
  • MUA angulation gives the right support for the prosthesis.
  • Permits the use of various implant systems in integration with each other.

Things to Consider While Performing Multi Unit Abutment

  • Check the screws properly and regularly. The reason is only that in case the screw breaks or loses, then, removing is a painful process and can even damage the bridge.
  • Let the bridge move directly on the implant top. However, it is not feasible on every bridge and implant type. You should have the skills to create a bridge without using MUA. Accordingly, you can use the larger screw that should not be loose or broken.