Understanding Internal Hex Titanium Bases (Ti-Base Abutments)
A titanium base—commonly called a Ti-Base abutment—is a precision connector that joins an internal-hex dental implant to a digitally designed crown or bridge. It forms the foundation of modern CAD/CAM implant workflows, combining titanium’s mechanical strength with the accuracy of digital design.
How Ti-Bases Work
- The Ti-Base screws directly onto the internal-hex 2.42 / 2.43 mm implant connection, creating a secure mechanical interface.
- A custom-milled zirconia or ceramic restoration is bonded or cemented onto the Ti-Base to complete the prosthesis.
- The assembly is tightened to the IFU value, never more than 15 Ncm on the abutment screw as stated in the Surcam catalog, for long-term stability and retrievability.
Clinical Benefits of Using Ti-Bases
- High strength and stability —the titanium core resists fracture and protects zirconia frameworks.
- Precision fit —the machined interface helps preserve preload and limit screw loosening.
- Digital libraries —library files for exocad®, 3Shape® and Dental Wings® are on the digital libraries page.
- Soft-tissue control —collar heights and concave profiles guide gingival healing and improve esthetics.
- Retrievability —screw-retained design allows future maintenance or crown replacement.
Choosing the Right Ti-Base
- Engaging (HEX) – for single crowns needing anti-rotation.
- Non-engaging – for bridges or multi-unit frameworks requiring a passive fit.
- Gingival height (GH) – match to tissue thickness to support natural emergence.
Integrating Ti-Bases into the Workflow
- Plan and place Internal Hex Implants with correct platform size.
- Capture records with Scan Bodies or Digital Analogs.
- Design and mill restorations in CAD software; bond them to the selected Ti-Base.
- Seat and torque using Drivers & Torque Wrenches following IFU values.
Best Practices for Bonding and Maintenance
- Sandblast the bonding surface with 50 µm Al₂O₃ at 2 bar.
- Apply MDP primer and dual-cure resin cement approved for titanium–zirconia interfaces.
- Verify torque and document lot number for traceability.
- Replace prosthetic screws during any major servicing or remake.
Why Choose Surcam Internal Hex Ti-Bases
- Machined from Grade 5 Titanium (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) for maximum strength and biocompatibility.
- Available in rotational and anti-rotational versions, including Prime-coated and wide-platform Ti-bases.
- Perfect fit with Surcam Transfers & Analogs, Multi-Unit Abutments, and Implants.
- Supported by digital libraries and IFUs for each component.
Summary
Surcam Internal Hex Ti-Bases deliver predictable precision in every restorative workflow. They combine mechanical durability, CAD/CAM accuracy, and biological harmony to produce long-lasting, esthetic restorations for single-tooth, bridge, and full-arch implant cases.