Effect of mastication load on retention force of custom-made LOCATOR abutments manufactured for angled implants: An in vitro study.

Statement Of Problem: Custom-made angled LOCATOR abutments have been used to compensate for the angulation of implants placed to support removable prostheses; however, their retention forces and the impact of mastication loading on retention have yet to be well addressed.

Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the retention force of custom-made LOCATOR abutments for implants placed at 0-, 15-, and 30-degree angulations with prefabricated abutments and to investigate the effect of mastication load on retention.

Material And Methods: Implant analogs were placed at the first molars of 40 maxillary typodonts, and 40 LOCATOR abutments were fabricated.