qAlthough titanium as excellent properties, such as high strength, low density, low thermal expansion coefficient and thermal conductivity making it compatible with ceramic materials, corrosion resistance and biocompatible, it can appear unesthetic.

qTitanium has the potential esthetic complication of metal show through and could result in a dissatisfactory restoration appearance and decreased patient acceptance.

qTranslucent restorative materials used in dentistry can complicate esthetics, as these materials may not be able to disguise the titanium metallic undertones of the supporting substructures.

q  The primary objective of this case presentation is to demonstrate how anodizing can be used to improve the esthetics and patient acceptance of prosthetics in dentistry such as implant abutments and metal frameworks of fixed hybrid prostheses.

 

MATERIALS AND METHOD
CASE REPORT (TECHNICAL STEPS)

The technique is a relatively straightforward process that utilizes a power generator, electrolyte solution, aluminum foil, and wax.

Before anodizing, the abutment or framework is cleaned, and the electrolyte solution is prepared by mixing distilled water and TSP-PF.

The solution is poured into container, the cathode is attached to a piece of aluminum foil and placed into the container.

A strainer is placed top of the container, so it is partly submerged in the solution. Transfer prosthetic to strainer/container.

 

 

DISCUSSION
Despite titanium’s excellent properties it can have dissatisfactory esthetics; this can be compounded with high smile lines or thin mucosa.

Anodizing the titanium substructure can mask the usual greyish hue and improve the esthetics of the prosthesis.

This case presentation illustrates the masking abilities of anodization to improve esthetic outcomes for a single implant restoration and a traditional metal acrylic hybrid.

RESULTS

Metallic undertones were able to be disguised with anodization.