Abstract:
A dental implant, components, and kit are provided. The implant can comprise a body, attachment means for attaching the implant to bone, and a recess. The recess can be disposed within the body and open towards a proximal end thereof. The recess can comprise a proximally-disposed receiving chamber and a distally-disposed threaded chamber. The receiving chamber can comprise an interlock chamber, which can be disposed at a distal end of the receiving chamber and have a polygonal cross-section. The implant can be multi-functional such that components for various dental prostheses and procedures can be provided having portions that can, for example, engage the interlock chamber of the implant, mate with the receiving chamber of the implant, and/or mate with the proximal end the implant for supporting the prosthesis and/or facilitating the procedure.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION 
       [0001]    The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/250,001, filed Sep. 30, 2011, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/739,024, filed Apr. 23, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,038,442, the disclosure of both of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Inventions 
         [0003]    The present inventions relate generally to implant dentistry and, more specifically, to dental implants and their mating components. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Implant dentistry involves the restoration of one or more teeth in a patient&#39;s mouth using artificial components. Such artificial components typically include a dental implant that supports a prosthetic tooth (e.g., a crown), an implant-supported bridge or an implant-supported denture. The dental implant is typically fabricated from pure titanium or a titanium alloy. The dental implant can include a body portion and a collar. The body portion is configured to extend into and osseointegrate with the alveolar bone. The top surface of the collar typically lies flush with the crest of the jawbone. An abutment (e.g., a final abutment) typically lies on the top surface and extends through the soft tissue, which lies above the alveolar bone. Recently, some dental implants have collars that extend above the crest of the jawbone and through the soft tissue. In certain indications, a dental implant can be used to replace a single tooth. In such indications, the dental implant is configured to support a single dental restoration (e.g., a crown), which can be mounted directly onto the implant or onto an abutment. In other indications, one or more dental implants are used to replace a plurality of teeth. In such indications, the one or more implants can be configured to support an implant supported bridge or an implant supported denture that can be attached directly to the implant or indirectly through a multi-unit abutment. 
         [0006]    Various connection platforms are known in the art for providing a connection interface between a dental implant and an abutment or other mating component. In general, the connection platforms can be characterized as external or internal. An example of an external connection platform is a dental implant with a hexagonal protrusion at the proximal end of the implant. See e.g., the Branemark System® sold by Nobel Biocare™. An example of an internal connection platform can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,733,291, which describes a dental implant with an internal multi-lobed interlock for mating with an abutment. See also NobelReplace™ sold by Nobel Biocare™. Another example of an internal connection is U.S. Pat. No. 4,960,381, which discloses a dental implant comprising a socket with a conical upper portion, a registration portion below the conical upper portion and an internally-threaded shaft below the registration portion. 
         [0007]    While such prior art dental implants have been successful, there is a continuing desire to improve the connection platform between the dental implant and the abutment. Such an improved platform would advantageously provide a robust anti-rotational structure to resist rotation and provide an indexing function between a mating component and the dental implant while also providing an enhanced seal between the mating component and the implant. It would also be desirable for the connection platform to accommodate various types of clinical indications such that the implant can be used to support both single dental restorations as well as implant supported bridges or dentures. In addition, it would be advantageous to continue to improve the dental implant&#39;s ability to osseointegrate with the alveolar bone and to generally promote gingival health and beauty. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    Accordingly, one embodiment of the present inventions comprises a dental implant. The dental implant can comprise a body having an open socket formed in the body. The body can comprise a proximal end, a distal end, and an outer surface extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The body can have a longitudinal axis and the distal end can define a top surface that is substantially flat and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the implant. The open socket can be formed in the top surface of the body. The open socket can comprise at least one tapered surface extending from the top surface. In some embodiments, the top surface of the implant can have an outer periphery and an inner periphery defined by the open socket and wherein the distance between the outer periphery and the inner periphery is equal to or greater than at least 0.2 millimeters. In certain arrangements, the top surface of the implant can be used to support multi-unit dental restorations such as implant supported bridges and/or dentures. 
         [0009]    In some embodiments, an interlock portion is formed below the tapered surface and the interlock portion includes at least one flat side that can form at least one of a square recess, a hexagonal recess, and an octagonal recess. In other embodiments, a portion of the at least one flat side can extend into the substantially conical portion of the open socket. 
         [0010]    The dental implant can also be configured such that the at least one tapered surface forms a substantially conical portion that defines a conical half angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees. In other embodiments, the substantially conical portion defines a conical half angle that is about 12 degrees. The ratio of the length of the conical portion and the length of the interlock portion can be between about 1:1. In one embodiment, the conical portion has a length measured vertically from the top surface of the implant of about 1 millimeter. In addition to and/or in the alternative, the interlock portion can have a length of about 1 millimeter. 
         [0011]    In yet other embodiments, the dental implant can further comprise a substantially cylindrical portion positioned between the interlock portion and a threaded portion of the open socket. In yet other embodiments, the outer surface of the implant can be provided with a surface treated to enhance tissue growth. 
         [0012]    In accordance with another embodiment of the present inventions, a dental implant is provided that comprises a body and an open socket formed in the body. The body can comprise a proximal end, a distal end, and an outer surface extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The body can have a longitudinal axis and the distal end can define a top surface. Further, the open socket can be formed in the top surface of the body. The open socket can comprise a substantially conical portion extending from the top surface, an interlock portion comprising at least one flat side positioned below the substantially conical portion, and a threaded portion comprising a thread positioned below the interlock region. In some embodiments, the ratio of the length of the conical portion and the length of the interlock portion is about 1:1. 
         [0013]    In other embodiments, the at least one flat side of the interlock portion can form at least one of a square recess, a hexagonal recess, and an octagonal recess. A portion of the at least one flat side can extend into the substantially conical portion of the open socket. The substantially conical portion can define a conical half angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees. Further, a portion of the at least one flat side can extend into at least ½ of the length of the substantially conical section. 
         [0014]    In yet another embodiment of the present inventions, a system is provided that comprises a first dental component, a second dental component, and/or a third dental component. The first dental component can comprise a body comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and an outer surface extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The body can have a longitudinal axis and the distal end can define a top surface. The first dental component can also comprise an open socket formed in the top surface of the body. The open socket can comprise a substantially conical portion extending from the top surface, an interlock portion comprising at least one flat side positioned below the substantially conical portion, and a threaded portion comprising a thread positioned below the interlock region. 
         [0015]    The system can include a second dental component that is configured to fit within the conical portion of the open socket of the implant and to engage the conical portion of the implant in a slip fit. In addition, the at least one flat side of the interlock portion can form at least one of a square recess, a hexagonal recess, and an octagonal recess. Further, the substantially conical portion can define a conical half angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees. 
         [0016]    A third dental component can comprise an upper portion and a lower portion configured to fit within the open socket of the implant. The lower portion can comprise an interlock region configured to mate with the interlock portion of the dental implant and a conical region configured to mate with conical portion of the dental implant in a tapered fit. 
         [0017]    In another embodiment, the third dental component can comprise an upper surface and a lower portion to fit within the open socket. The lower portion can comprise a conical region configured to mate with the conical portion of the dental implant in a tapered fit and to extend into the interlock portion of the implant but not to engage the interlock portion. In such an embodiment, it is contemplated that the at least one flat side of the interlock portion can form at least one of a square recess, a hexagonal recess, and an octagonal recess. Further, the substantially conical portion can define a conical half angle between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0018]    The abovementioned and other features of the inventions disclosed herein are described below with reference to the drawings of the preferred embodiments. The drawings contain the following figures: 
           [0019]      FIG. 1A  is a top front perspective view of a dental implant in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 1B  is an enlarged top side perspective view of the dental implant of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0021]      FIG. 1C  is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the dental implant of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0022]      FIG. 1D  is a top view of the dental implant of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0023]      FIG. 2A  is a bottom side perspective view of an abutment according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2B  is a bottom view of the abutment of  FIG. 2A . 
           [0025]      FIG. 2C  is a cross-sectional side view taken along line  2 C- 2 C of  FIG. 2B . 
           [0026]      FIG. 3A  is a bottom side perspective view of another embodiment of an abutment. 
           [0027]      FIG. 3B  is a bottom view of the abutment of  FIG. 3A . 
           [0028]      FIG. 4A  is a perspective view of an abutment according to one embodiment. 
           [0029]      FIG. 4B  is a bottom view of the abutment of  FIG. 4A . 
           [0030]      FIG. 5A  is a top view of a coupling element. 
           [0031]      FIG. 5B  is a cross-sectional side view taken through line  5 B- 5 B of  FIG. 5A . 
           [0032]      FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional side view of the implant of  FIG. 1A  and the abutment of  FIG. 2A  attached together with the coupling element of  FIG. 5A . 
           [0033]      FIG. 7A  is an embodiment of an insertion tool that is configured to interface with the dental implant of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0034]      FIG. 7B  is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the dental implant of  FIG. 1A  interfaced with the insertion tool of  FIG. 7A . 
           [0035]      FIG. 7C  is a side view of another embodiment of an insertion tool. 
           [0036]      FIG. 7D  is a front view of a clip configured to be coupled to the insertion tool of  FIG. 7   c.    
           [0037]      FIG. 8A  is a side view of an abutment according to yet another embodiment. 
           [0038]      FIG. 8B  is a side view of another embodiment of an abutment. 
           [0039]      FIG. 9  is a side view of another embodiment of an abutment that can be inserted into the implant of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0040]      FIG. 10A  is a side view of an embodiment of a temporary coping that can be fitted onto the abutment illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 10B  is a cross-sectional side view of the temporary coping of  FIG. 10A . 
           [0042]      FIG. 11A  is a side view of an embodiment of a healing coping that can be fitted onto the abutment illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
           [0043]      FIG. 11B  is a cross-sectional side view of the temporary coping of  FIG. 11A . 
           [0044]      FIG. 12A  is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of an impression coping that can be fitted onto the abutment illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 12B  is a cross-sectional side view of the impression coping of  FIG. 12A . 
           [0046]      FIG. 13A  is a side view of another abutment according to yet another embodiment. 
           [0047]      FIG. 13B  is a side view of the abutment of  FIG. 13A  inserted into the implant of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0048]      FIG. 14A  is a perspective view of implant supported bridge and a set of dental implants. 
           [0049]      FIG. 14B  is a bottom view of the implant supported bridge of  FIG. 14A . 
           [0050]      FIG. 14C  is a side cross-sectional view of the implant supported bridge and one of the dental implants of  FIG. 14A . 
           [0051]      FIG. 15A  is a side view of an implant replica, according to yet another embodiment. 
           [0052]      FIG. 15B  is a side cross-sectional view of the implant replica of  FIG. 15A . 
           [0053]      FIG. 16A  is a perspective side view of a superstructure. 
           [0054]      FIG. 16B  is a cross-sectional side view of the superstructure of  FIG. 16B . 
           [0055]      FIG. 16C  is a side view of a coping of the superstructure of  FIG. 16A . 
           [0056]      FIG. 16D  is a cross-sectional view of the coping of  FIG. 16A . 
           [0057]      FIG. 17A  is a side perspective view of another embodiment of an abutment. 
           [0058]      FIG. 17B  is a side view of the abutment of  FIG. 17A . 
           [0059]      FIG. 17C  is a cross-sectional side view of the abutment of  FIG. 17A . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0060]      FIGS. 1A-1D  illustrate an embodiment of a dental implant  20  having certain features and aspects according the present inventions. As will be described in further detail below, the dental implant  20  can be used to support a single dental restoration (e.g., a crown) and/or can be used to support a plurality of dental restorations (e.g. an implant supported bridge or denture). 
         [0061]    With initial reference to  FIGS. 1A-1D , the illustrated implant  20  includes a connection portion  18   a  that can be used to connect the dental implant  20  to another dental component, such as a dental abutment, healing cap, impression coping, and/or implant supported bridge or denture, as will be described below. As best seen in  FIG. 1A , the dental implant  20  can also include a body  26  that extends from a proximal end  22  of the implant  20  to a distal end  24  of the implant  20 . The dental implant  20  can be made of titanium, although other materials can be used, such as various types of ceramics 
         [0062]    The body  26  preferably comprises an outer surface  28 . In the illustrated arrangement, the outer surface  28  includes threads  30  that extend helically around the body  26 . As is known in the art, the threads  30  can improve the dental implant&#39;s ability to osseointegrate with the alveolar bone and improve stability. However, in other embodiments, the body  26  can be unthreaded. In addition, the dental implant  20  can utilize various types of thread configurations. Examples of such thread configurations include the threaded implants sold under the trademarks NobelReplace™ Tapered and NobelReplace™ Straight, the threaded configurations described in PCT Application No. PCT/IL2004/00438, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, and in Applicant&#39;s co-pending application filed on the same date as this application under Attorney Docket Number NOBELB.264A, entitled “DENTAL IMPLANT,” the entirety of which is also incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0063]    With reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1C , the body  26  can include a generally cylindrical proximal portion or collar  9  with a generally tapered distal portion  7 . In the illustrated embodiment, the collar  9  can include a pair of circumferential generally semi-circular grooves  8 , which in one embodiment have a width of about 150 microns across and a depth of about 50 microns. In modified embodiments, the collar  9  can be provided with more, less or no grooves and/or grooves with different dimensions and configurations. In other embodiments, the circumferential protrusions or micro-threads can be provided on the collar  9 . In general, such structures on the collar  9  are advantageously configured to load the harder cortical bone through which the implant  20  is inserted but to a lesser extent as compared to the threads  30  of the implant  20 , which can be configured to engage the spongy cancellous bone positioned below the cortical bone. In other embodiments, the collar  9  can be inwardly tapered or have a reverse taper. 
         [0064]    With continued reference to  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1C , as mention above, the threads  30  in the illustrated embodiment are relatively coarse threads configured to engage the spongy cancellous bone positioned below the cortical bone. In addition to aid retention forces in the cancellous bone, the body  26  preferably tapers at an angle A from the collar  9  to the distal end of the implant  20 . In one embodiment, the angle A can vary along the length of the implant and in one embodiment the variable angle can vary such that the angle at the distal portion is shallower than that at the proximal portion. Further, the faces  31  of the threads  30  can also form a conical shape having an angle B that can also vary along the length of the implant  30 . The angle defined by the faces  31  of the threads  30  can be different from the varying conical angle formed by the implant body  26 . That is, the conical angle defined by the lower portion  34  of the implant body  26  can be shallower than the conical angle formed by the threads  30 . Although the illustrated embodiment utilizes the aforementioned conical angle relations, other suitable relations may be used. Such suitable relations may comprise threads  30  that are not conical and define a generally cylindrical shape or threads  30  that define a conical angle that closely matches the conical angle the implant body  26 . In other embodiments, the body  26  and/or the thread  30  faces  31  can be substantially cylindrical. It should also be appreciated that the body  26  can be configured to be self-tapping. 
         [0065]    In addition to or as an alternative to the threads  30 , the outer surface  28  of the implant  20  can be provided with various other surface features configured to promote osseointegration and/or soft tissue health. For example, the surface area of the outer surface  28  can be increased by roughening the implant body  26  in several different manners, such as, for example, by acid-etching, grit blasting, and/or machining. The outer surface  28  can also be coated with a substance configured to promote osseointegration (e.g. growth factor, Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP))). In some embodiments, the coating can result in decreasing or increasing the surface area of the implant body  26 . Calcium phosphate ceramics, such as tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HA) are examples of materials that can enhance osseointegration by changing the chemistry of the outer surface  28 . In other embodiments, the outer surface  28  can comprise macroscopic structures, such as, for example, threads, micro-threads, indentations, and/or grooves that are configured to promote osseointegration and can be used alone or combined with the roughening and/or the coatings described above. In one embodiment, the outer surface  28  comprises a microstructure surface, such as, a highly crystalline and phosphate enriched titanium oxide microstructured surface with open pores in the low micrometer range. An example of such a surface is sold under the trademark, TiUnite™ by Nobel Biocare AB™. In another embodiment, it is particularly advantageous for a zirconium ceramic body can be coated with porous zirconium to provide a microstructure surface. In another embodiment, the microstructure surface can be coated with a substance configured to promote osseointegration (such as BMP). 
         [0066]    With particular reference to  FIGS. 1B-C , the illustrated connection portion  18   a  comprises a top surface  21  of the implant  20 , which is defined by the proximal end  22  of the implant  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface  21  comprises a substantially flat or planar surface that extends generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L of the implant  20 . A chamfered edge  23  can extend between the top surface  21  of the implant  20  and the outer surface  28  of the body  26  of the implant  30  with the interface between the chamfered edge  23  and the top surface  21  defining an outer periphery of the top surface  21  and an internal socket  66  defining an inner periphery of the top surface  21 . In one arrangement, the outer surface  28  of the implant  20  includes a feature (e.g., enriched titanium oxide surface) configured to promote osseointegration and/or soft tissue integration as described above. In such an embodiment, the feature configured to promote osseointegration and/or soft tissue can also extend onto the top surface  21  and in another embodiment, the feature can substantially cover the entire top surface  21  of the implant  20 . However, in other embodiments, the top surface  21  can be formed without any additional features to promote mating and sealing with other components as will be described below. 
         [0067]    As shown in  FIGS. 1B-D , the internal or open socket  66  has an open end in the top surface  21  of the implant  20 . In the illustrated arrangement, the socket  66  comprises a substantially conical or tapered portion  68  that is positioned above an interlock recess  74 , which is, in turn, positioned above a threaded portion  70  of the socket  66 . 
         [0068]    With particular reference to  FIG. 1C , the tapered portion  68  has a generally conical shape defined by tapering side wall or surface  80  that tapers inwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the implant  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, the interlock recess  74 , in turn, is defined by a plurality of interconnected substantially flat side walls  79  that form a generally hexagonal recess that has a cross-sectional shape in the form of a hexagon. The flat sides  79  can be interconnected by rounded corners  78  (see  FIG. 1D ). As will be described below, the interlock recess  74  provides surfaces  79  that resist rotation between the implant  20  and a mating component and/or providing an indexing function to the implant  20 . It is anticipated that in modified embodiments the interlock recess  74  can have other configurations, such as, for example, a square, an octagon, and/or various combinations of lobes or recesses. 
         [0069]    With particular reference to  FIGS. 1C and 1D , in the illustrated arrangement, the generally conical shape of the conical portion  68  and the generally hexagonal shape of the interlock recess  74  can result in the corners  78  and portions of the side walls  70  of the interlock recess  74  extending into a substantial portion of the side wall  80  of the conical portion  68 . That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the corners  78  and certain portions of the side walls  79  near the corners  78  will extend further into the conical portion  68  as compared to the portions of the flat sides  79  distanced from the corners  78  of the interlock recess  74 . Accordingly, the flat sides  79  of the interlock recess  74  can be configured to extend upwardly for along at least a portion of the conical portion  68 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 1C , the flat sides  79  and corners  78  can extend approximately to a midpoint of the conical portion  68 . In one embodiment, this interface between the interlock recess  74  and the conical portion  68  can be formed by sequentially forming the conical portion and then the interlock recess  74  (or vice versa) with machining tools. The illustrated arrangement is advantageous in that it results in a smooth transition between the two portions of the socket  66  reducing stress concentrations and risers. In the description below, the portion of the conical portion  68  that includes features of the interlock recess  74  will be referred to as a transition area  71 . 
         [0070]    As best seen in  FIG. 1C , below the interlock recess  74  can be a sub-chamber  77  that is located above the threaded chamber  70  and is defined by a generally cylindrical side wall  84 . In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-chamber  77  has a substantially circular cross-section with a diameter that can be slightly larger than the largest extent of the threaded chamber  70 . Furthermore, the sub-chamber  77  preferably is relatively short as compared to the interlock recess  74  or the threaded chamber  70 . The sub-chamber  77  can be used in conjunction with a tool and will be discussed in greater detail below. The sub-chamber  77  can also be used to provide a transition between the threaded portion  70  and the interlock recess  74 , which can facilitate efficient machining of the socket  66 . In other embodiments, the sub-chamber  77  can be eliminated. 
         [0071]    With continued reference to  FIG. 1B-D , the corners  78  of the interlock recess  74  preferably are rounded so as to facilitate machining the socket  66  with machining tools. Thus, in some embodiments, the shape of the interlock portion  75  can be configured such that it can be easily cut by the end of a cylindrical milling bit. However, the shape of the interlock portion  75  can include squared corners in other embodiments. In addition, as mentioned above, the shape of the interlock recess  74  can be modified to other polygon shapes, such as a square shape, an octagonal shape or a triangular shape, or combinations thereof. 
         [0072]    The connection portion  18   a  is advantageously configured to provide an enhanced connection interface and to provide flexibility such that the implant  20  can mate with multiple types of dental components. In particular, as noted above, the conical portion  68  comprises a side wall  80  that tapers inwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the implant  20  providing a wider initial opening  82  for the socket  66 . With reference to  FIG. 1C , the particular geometry of the conical chamber  68  defines a conical half angle α with respect to the longitudinal axis L. In one embodiment, the conical half angle α is between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees. That is, the angle between the inner wall  80  and a longitudinal center line L preferably is between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees. In one embodiment, the conical half angle is about 12 degrees. 
         [0073]    As will be described below, the conical portion  68  advantageously provides a tapered mating surface for corresponding tapered parts of a mating component. In this manner, the conical portion  68  can be used to create a tapered fit or connection between the mating component and the dental implant  20 . The tapered connection provides an enhanced seal between the mating component and the dental implant  20  preventing bodily fluids and bacteria from entering the socket  66 . In addition, the conical portion also advantageously balances the sealing advantages of a tapered connection with the ability to remove, without tools, conical mating parts inserted into the conical chamber  68 . The 12 degree conical half angle has been found to provide an improved balance between these advantages. 
         [0074]    Another advantage of the illustrated embodiment is the ratio between the length (d 1 ) of the conical portion  68  and the length (d 2 ) the interlock recess  74 . With reference to  FIG. 1C , in the illustrated arrangement, the ratio of the length of the conical portion  68  with respect to the length of the interlock chamber is about 1:1. In one preferred embodiment, the depth (d 1 ) of the conical portion  68  is at least about 1 mm and the depth (d 2 ) of the interlock recess  74  is at least about 1 mm. As shown in  FIG. 1C , the length (d 1 ) of the conical portion  68  is a distance measured in a vertical direction from the top surface  21  of the implant  20  to the portion of the socket  66  in which the tapered surfaces  80  of the conical portion  68  terminate. Accordingly, the length (d 1 ) of the conical portion  68  includes the transition area  71  described above. The length (d 2 ) of the interlock recess  74  is measured in a vertical direction from the end of the conical portion  68  (i.e. excluding the transition area  71 ) to the end of the interlock recess  74 . The ratios and length of the conical portion  68  and the depth and length of the interlock recess  74  advantageously combine the benefits of a sufficiently long tapered connection to provide an effective seal with a sufficiently long interlock recess  74  such that a sufficient driving torque can be transmitted to the implant  20 , when the implant is driven into the patient. 
         [0075]    In addition, as described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the body  26  of the implant  20  is tapered and includes threads  30 . With continued reference to  FIG. 1C , in the illustrated embodiment, the interlock region  74  is positioned below (i.e., with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the implant  20 ) the substantially cylindrical collar  9  of the implant body  26  and the threads  30  extend above (again, with respect the longitudinal axis L) the end of the interlock recess  74 . The combination of the tapered body  26  and the deep threads  30  reduce the amount of material available at the proximal end of the implant  20 . The above-described arrangement advantageously provides a sealing surface formed by the conical portion  68  and an interlock recess  74  that is sufficiently wall thick to maintain the structural integrity of the body  26 . In addition, as described below, the socket  66  also is configured to provide sufficient area at the top surface  21  to support additional components. 
         [0076]    Yet another advantage of the illustrated embodiment is an area or thickness of the substantially planar top surface  21  of the implant  20 . As will be described in detail below, the top surface  21  of the implant  20  advantageously can provide a surface to support certain dental restorations on the top surface  21  of the implant  20 . Additionally or alternatively, the top surface  21  can be used to support a component that bypasses the interlock recess  74 . Accordingly, in one embodiment, the top surface  21  of the implant  20  has at least a thickness as measured between the outer and inner periphery of the top surface  21  that is greater than at least 0.2 mm and in another embodiment greater than about 0.25 mm. In one embodiment, the thickness of the top surface  21  is about 0.25 mm. 
         [0077]      FIGS. 2A-C  illustrate an embodiment of an abutment  100  that includes a connection portion  18   b  configured to mate with the connection portion  18   a  of the dental implant  20  described above. As will be explained below, the abutment  100  can be formed as a variety of dental components, such as, for example, a healing cap, impression coping, a temporary healing abutment, or a final abutment, to name a few. The illustrated abutment  100  is configured to serve as a support for a single tooth restoration (e.g., a crown). The abutment  100  is preferably made of dental grade titanium; however, other suitable materials such as various types of ceramics can also be used. In still other embodiments, a combination of materials can be used, for example, dental grade titanium and ceramics. 
         [0078]    With reference to  FIGS. 2A and 2C , in the illustrated embodiment, the abutment  100  can comprise an upper portion  102  that can be configured to receive the single tooth restoration (not shown). Between the upper portion  102  and connection portion  18   b  is a waist  101  that comprises a generally outwardly tapering side wall  107  and a generally vertically extending margin  109 . As shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the side wall  107  and the margin  109  can have a shape configured to generally match the anatomical features of the patient&#39;s gum tissues and/or the final restoration. Accordingly, the side wall  107  and the margin  109  can have an asymmetrical cross-section (see  FIG. 2B ) and/or a varying height (see  FIG. 2A ). 
         [0079]    The connection portion  18   b , in turn, can include a conical region  104  generally adjacent the waist  101  and an interlock portion  106  generally positioned at the distal end of the abutment  100 . The interlock portion  106  of the illustrated embodiment preferably comprises a shape that can correspond to and/or be sized to fit within the interlock recess  74  of the dental implant  20 , the shape of which is best seen in  FIG. 1B . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the interlock portion  106  has a hexagonal shape which can correspond to the shape of the illustrated embodiment of the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 . Nevertheless, as with the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 , the interlock portion  106  can be configured in any variety of shapes, polygonal or otherwise as will be described below. 
         [0080]    With continued reference to  FIGS. 2A-2C , the conical region  104  of the abutment  100  can be configured to be inserted into the conical portion  68  of the dental implant  20  to form a tapered fit. Accordingly, as with the conical portion  68  of the implant  20 , the conical region  104  of the abutment  100  comprises a conical shape comprising a half angle β with respect to a longitudinal axis L 2  of the abutment (see  FIG. 2C ). The half angle β can be between about 10 and 20 degrees and in one embodiment is about 12 degrees. In general, when a sealing arrangement is desired between the conical portion  68  of the implant  20  and the conical region  104  of the abutment  100 , the half angles α and β are substantially the same. 
         [0081]    With reference to  FIGS. 2A and 2C , a rounded waist or narrowed portion  111  can be formed between the conical region  104  and the interlock portion  106  of the abutment  100 . The narrowed portion  111  can aid in machining the abutment  100  with machining tools. In other embodiments, the narrowed portion  111  can be eliminated. 
         [0082]    As best seen in  FIG. 2C , the abutment  100  can include an inner bore  110 . The inner bore  110  can extend through the center of the abutment  100  and can be approximately coaxially aligned with the longitudinal center line L 2  of the abutment  100 . The inner bore  110  can be divided into a first and a second region  112 ,  114 . In some embodiments, the first region  112  can comprise a diameter that is slightly larger than the diameter of the second region  114 . In such an embodiment, a seat  116  can be formed between the first and second regions  112 ,  114 . This seat  116  can support a coupling member  200  (see  FIGS. 5A and 5B ), as described in greater detail below. Further, the second region  114  can be formed to include internal capture threads  118  that are configured to interface with the coupling member  200 . 
         [0083]    As mentioned above, the interlock portion  106  and the corresponding interlock recess  74  of the implant  20  can be configured in a variety of different manners. For example,  FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrate an embodiment in which the interlock portion  106 ′ has a generally square shape with four flat sides and rounded edges. The interlock recess  74  of the implant (not shown) can have a corresponding similar shape for receiving the interlock portion  106 ′ of the abutment  100 ′.  FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate another embodiment of an abutment  100 ″ in which the interlock portion  106 ″ has an octagonal shape comprising eight flat sides. In one embodiment, the abutment  100 ″ of  FIGS. 4A and 4B  can be configured to mate with a corresponding octagonal shaped interlock portion of an implant (not shown). In another embodiment, the abutment  100 ″ can be configured to mate with a square shaped interlock portion as described with reference to  FIGS. 3A and 3B . Such an arrangement can provide the additional advantage in that additional rotational positions for the abutment  100 ″ relative to the dental implant  20  are provided. That is, when connection portion  18   b  is to be inserted into the connection portion  18   a  of the dental implant  20 , a polygon shape of the interlock portion  106 , for example an octagonal shape, allows the abutment  100  to have eight possible rotational positions relative to the dental implant  20  with a square shaped interlock portion. This can allow the relative rotational position of the abutment  100  to be tuned to the desirable rotational position when installed with the dental implant  20 . The same principle can be extended to the hexagonal interlock recess  74  and interlock portion  106  of  FIGS. 1A-2C  by providing the interlock region with, for example, ten sides. 
         [0084]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate an embodiment of a coupling screw  200  that can be used to mechanically couple the abutment  100  to the implant  20 . The coupling screw  200  can be made of dental grade titanium alloy, although other suitable materials can be used, such as various other metals or ceramics. The coupling screw  200  can be sized and shaped to extend through the inner bore  110  of the abutment  100  and into the socket  66  of the implant  20 . The coupling screw  200  can include an externally threaded lower region  202  that can engage the internal capture threads  118  of the abutment  100  and can engage the threaded chamber  70  of the implant  20 . The threads  204  of the coupling screw  200  can engage the capture threads  118  so that the coupling screw  200  does not become disassociated as the abutment  100  is transferred and lifted into a patient&#39;s mouth. 
         [0085]    The coupling screw  200  also preferably includes a recess  206  for receiving a correspondingly shaped tool to facilitate installation and removal of the coupling screw  200  from the implant  20 . The recess  206  can be located on a top surface  208  of the screw  200 . In the illustrated embodiment, the recess  206  is in a shape configured to receive a Unigrip® rotational tool provided by Nobel Biocare™. In other embodiments, the recess  208  can have a different shape, such as, for example, a hexagon configured to allow for the insertion of a hexagonally shaped tool such as a conventional Allen® wrench to install or remove the coupling screw  200  from the implant  20 . 
         [0086]      FIG. 6  illustrates an embodiment wherein the abutment  100  has been coupled to the dental implant  20  with the coupling screw  200  via the connection  18 . As illustrated, the interlock portion  106  of the abutment  100  preferably is aligned and inserted into the interlock recess  74  of the dental implant  20 . Furthermore, the conical region  104  of the abutment  100  preferably is inserted into the conical portion  68  of the dental implant  20  to form a sealed or tapered fit connection between the abutment  100  and the implant  20 . The abutment  100  can be inserted into the socket  66  of the dental implant  20  such that the lower end  108  of the interlock portion  106  is in contact with the lower end  75  of the interlock recess  74 . As used in this application, a sealed or taper fit refers to the interface and between contacting tapered surfaces of the conical portion  68  of the implant  20  and the conical region  104  of the abutment  100  or other mating component. As is known in the art, a tapered fit between tapered surfaces can provide a particularly strong and efficient seal between mating components that can prevent or substantially inhibit the migration of tissue and/or fluids between the interface between the mating components and into the socket  66 . Although the illustrated embodiments show conical components with generally circular cross-sections it should be appreciated that in modified embodiments, the tapered surfaces can be provided by non-circular structures such as polygons with tapered flat sides, ovals, and/or complex shapes. 
         [0087]    With continued reference to  FIG. 6 , the lower threaded region  202  of the coupling screw  200  can be engaged with the threaded chamber  70  of the dental implant  20 . The seat  210  of the coupling screw  200  can also abut the seat  116  of the abutment  100 . This engagement of the coupling screw  200  and the abutment  100  and the dental implant  20  can thereby secure the abutment  100  to the dental implant  20 . 
         [0088]    As mentioned above, the tapered fit or connection between the abutment  100  component and the dental implant  20  advantageously provides an enhanced seal between the abutment  100  and the dental implant  20  preventing bodily fluids and bacteria from entering the socket  66 . In addition, the ratios between depth and length of the conical portion  68  and the depth and length of the interlock recess  74  advantageously combines the benefits of a tapered connection with a sufficiently long interlock recess  74  to provide sufficient resistance to rotation of a mating component. 
         [0089]    Another advantage of the illustrated embodiment is that the abutment  100  does not sit on the top surface  21  of the implant  20 . Instead, the tapered waist  101  extends from the interface between the top surface  21  and the opening of the socket  66 . This arrangement advantageously results in a reduction of the width (i.e., in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the implant  20 ) of the implant platform from the perimeter of the top surface  21  to the portion of the abutment  100  emerging from the socket  66 . This reduction of size indicated by the arrow N-N in  FIG. 6  forms a waist or narrowed portion in the structure of the implant  20  and abutment  100  combination that has a maximum width (as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the implant  20 ) that is approximately equal to the width of the top surface  21  of the implant. The waist can increase the volume of soft tissue, and blood supply to soft tissue, around the implant and abutment connection promoting gingival health and beauty. 
         [0090]      FIG. 7A  illustrates a dental tool  300  that can be used to drive the dental implant  20  into a patient. The dental tool  300  can comprise a shank portion  302 , which in some embodiments can be connected to a rotary machine (not shown). A drive portion  304  can be formed at the front end of the tool  300 , and can comprise a polygon shaped cross-section configured to mate with the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 . In the particular embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 7A , the drive portion  304  has a hexagonal shape. In another embodiment configured to mate with the implant of  FIGS. 1A-D , the drive portion  304  can be configured to have a square shape (not shown). Of course, the drive portion  304  can have a variety of other shapes and can be configured to transmit torque through the interlock recess  74  to the implant  20 . 
         [0091]    With continued reference to the embodiment of the tool  300  illustrated in  FIG. 7A , a cylindrical portion  306  can be formed below the polygon shaped portion  304 . The cylindrical surface  306  preferably tapers towards the front end of the dental tool  300  and is configured to be inserted into the sub-chamber  77  of the dental implant  20 , as shown in  FIG. 7B . When the dental tool  300  is inserted into the dental implant  20 , the portion  306  preferably wedges into the sub-chamber  77  producing a friction fit so that the implant  20  can be lifted and carried by the dental tool  300 . That is, the dental tool  300  can simply be firmly inserted into the dental implant  20  to cause frictional engagement between the dental tool  300  with the dental implant  20  to temporarily connect the dental tool  300  and dental implant  20 . Thus, the dental tool  300  can be used to lift and place the dental implant  20  into a desired position. 
         [0092]    With continued reference to  FIG. 7A  and  FIG. 7B , the tool  300  also preferably comprises a thread guide portion  308  that preferably is circular in cross-section and is configured to be inserted into the threaded chamber  70  of the dental implant  20 . The diameter of the threaded guide portion  308  is preferably smaller than the smallest diameter defined by the threads of the threaded chamber  70 . The tool  300  can also include a manual tool engagement section  305  positioned along the shaft  302  and configured to engage a manual torque applying tool (e.g., a wrench). 
         [0093]      FIG. 7C  is a distal end of a modified embodiment of the tool  300  described above. In this embodiment, the tool  300  includes a drive portion  304  and a shank portion  302 , a thread guide portion  308  and tool engagement section  305  as described above. However, in this embodiment the cylindrical surface  306  is replaced by a clip engagement member  310 , which comprises an annular ridge  312  positioned on the guide portion  308 . Between the ridge  312  and the drive portion  304 , an elastic clip or ring (see  FIG. 7D ) can be positioned. In one embodiment the clip  316  is made of a polyketone (e.g., PEEK) or another elastic material. Once in position, the clip  316  can have a diameter slightly larger than the ridge  312 . In this manner, the clip can be positioned within the sub-chamber  77  to form an elastic fit that allows the tool  300  to grip and hold the weight of the implant  20 . 
         [0094]    As discussed above, the components configured with the implant  20  can be variously configured. For example,  FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate two different embodiments of an abutment  400 ,  400 ′ configured to mate with the implant  20  described above and to bypass the connection with the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 . The abutments  400 ,  400 ′ of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  can be termed “healing” abutments, which can be used after the implant  20  is initially implanted into the patient&#39;s alveolar bone. In such situations, it may be advantageous to avoid loading the implant  20  with stresses and other forces while the implant  20  osseointegrates with the alveolar bone to form a tight bond with the implant  20  and/or to shape the contours of the soft tissue surrounding the implant  20 . 
         [0095]    In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 8A , the abutment  400  can include a threaded section  402  that is configured to mate with the threaded chamber  70  of the implant  20 . The abutment  400  can also include an intermediate section  404 . The intermediate section  404  can have a substantially conical and/or tapered shape configured to fit within the conical portion  68  of the implant  20 . However, the size of the intermediate section  404  is preferably configured such that it smaller than the conical portion  68  and does not engage the conical portion  68  in a tapered fit when the threaded section  402  engages the threaded chamber  70 . For example, the intermediate section  404  can have a clearance fit with the conical portion  68  of the implant  20 . The intermediate section  404  can aid the abutment  400  in being generally centered when received into the implant  20 . As will be explained below, a top cover  410  of the abutment  400  can engage the top surface  21  of the implant. Thus, the abutment  400  can engage the top surface  21  of the implant  20  while bypassing a tapered fit with the conical portion  68  and while bypassing the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 . Thus, the intermediate section  404  is generally configured to provide a “slip fit” between the abutment  400  and the conical portion  68 . As used herein, slip fit refers to a relationship between parts in which conical portion  68  constrains movement of the intermediate section  404  but still provides a gap such that a seal is not formed between the two components. Thus, in other embodiments, the intermediate section  404  can have a non-round cross-sectional and/or can have a tapered, cylindrical or generally non-vertical side walls. In modified embodiments, the abutment  400  can be configured to engage the interlock recess  74  and in such embodiments, the abutment  400  can be coupled to the implant  20  via a coupling screw (not shown). 
         [0096]    As also shown in  FIG. 8A , the abutment  400  can include a cover portion  410  defining a top height  412 . The top height  412  can be defined as the distance from the proximal end of the implant  20  to a top end  414  of the abutment  400  when the abutment  400  is fully seated or received within the receiving chamber  68  of the implant  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, when such an embodiment is seated in the receiving chamber  68  of the implant  20 , it is contemplated that the cover portion  410  may be the only portion of the abutment  400  that protrudes from the implant  20 . In this regard, the cover portion  410  can be configured to act as a temporary prosthesis that covers and protects the interior of the implant  20  while the bone and the implant  20  become set after initial implantation. Thus, the cover portion  410  can be shaped to cover the entire opening of the receiving chamber  68 . For example, the cover portion  410  can be substantially cylindrical and have a substantially circular cross-section that generally matches the shape of the posterior end of the implant  20 . The cover portion  410  can be configured to rest on top of the implant  20  or can be partially nested within the receiving chamber  68 . In the illustrated embodiment, the cover portion  410  is configured to cover and protect the entire top surface  21  of the implant  20 . Such an abutment is advantageous when the implant  20  is to be used to support a component that will rest upon the top surface  21  such as an implant supported bridge of abutment because the abutment  400  prevents or inhibits bone tissue growth onto the top surface  21  of the implant. As shown by the dashed lines in  FIG. 8A , the height  412  can be increased and in one embodiment the top end can be configured to extend through the soft tissue of the patient. In such an embodiment, the abutment  400  can also be used to guide tissue growth. In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 8A , the cover portion  410  is configured to lie underneath the soft tissue. Of course, other heights of the cover portion  410  can be used also in other embodiments. 
         [0097]    As shown in  FIG. 8B , in another embodiment, the abutment  400 ′ can include a threaded portion  402 ′, a intermediate section  404 ′, and a top portion  410 ′ defining a top height  412 ′ measured from a top end  414 ′ thereof to the proximal end of the implant  20  when seated in the implant  20 . As with the embodiment of  FIG. 8A , the top height  412 ′ can be varied. In this embodiment, the intermediate section  404 ′ is configured to engage the conical portion  68  of the implant  20  in a sealed or tapered fit. Accordingly, the angle intermediate portion can be similar to the abutment  100  described above. The abutment  400 ′ of this embodiment does not cover the top surface  21  of the implant  20  but does engage the conical portion  68  in a sealed or tapered fit. The height  412 ′ can be varied. In one embodiment, the height  412 ′ can be great enough such that the abutment  400 ′ extends through the soft tissue and in another embodiment, the height  412 ′ can be small enough such that the abutment lies beneath the soft tissue. The abutment  400 ′ of  FIG. 8B  is particularly useful in applications when implant  20  is to be used in combination with an abutment  100  and/or to be used to support a single restoration. In modified embodiments, the abutment  400 ′ can be configured to engage the interlock recess  74  and in such embodiments, the abutment  400  can be coupled to the implant  20  via a coupling screw (not shown). 
         [0098]    Although not illustrated, it should be understood that the top surfaces of the abutments of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  can be provided with a recess (or protrusion) for mating with a torque applying tool. For example, in one embodiment, the abutments  400 ,  400 ′ include a recess having a shape configured to receive a Unigrip® rotational tool provided by Nobel Biocare™. This recess can be formed similarly to the recess  206  shown above in the embodiment of the coupling screw  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 5A-B . 
         [0099]      FIG. 9  is a side view of another embodiment of an abutment  450  that can be inserted into an implant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A-D . The abutment  450  shown in  FIG. 9  can be configured to be used with other types of components, and in particular, can be used with a temporary coping, a healing cap, and/or an impression coping as described further below. These features, and others, are described in Applicant&#39;s co-pending application Ser. No. 10/748,869 (U.S. Publication No. 2004-0241610), filed on Dec. 30, 2003 under Attorney Docket Number NOBELB.163A, entitled “DENTAL IMPLANT SYSTEM”, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0100]    The embodiment of the abutment  450  shown in  FIG. 9  includes an upper region  452 , an interlock portion  454  generally positioned at the distal end of the abutment  450 , and a conical region  456  generally adjacent a waist  458 . The upper region  452  is dimensioned and configured to mate with one of a variety of components. Such components can include, for example, those shown in  FIGS. 10A-12B . The interlock portion  454  of the illustrated embodiment preferably comprises a shape that can correspond to and/or be sized to fit within the interlock recess  74  of the dental implant  20 , the shape of which is best seen in  FIG. 1B . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the interlock portion  454  has a hexagonal shape which can correspond to the shape of the illustrated embodiment of the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 . Nevertheless, as with the interlock recess  74  of the implant  20 , the interlock portion  454  can be configured in any variety of shapes, polygonal or otherwise, as described herein. Further, as described above with respect to the abutment  100  of  FIGS. 2A-C , the conical region  456  of the abutment  450  can be configured to be inserted into the conical portion  68  of the dental implant  20  to form a tapered fit. Accordingly, as with the conical portion  68  of the implant  20 , the conical region  456  of the abutment  450  can comprise a conical shape comprising a half angle, which can be variously configured, as described above with respect to the abutment  100 . 
         [0101]    As shown in  FIG. 9 , the abutment  450  can have an open socket  460  that opens into a top surface  462  of the abutment  450 . The open socket  460  includes an inner surface  464  that can include an annular groove  466 , which, as will be described below, can be used to engage a snapping element of a mating component. 
         [0102]      FIGS. 10A and 10B  are a side view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of an embodiment of a temporary coping  500  that can be fitted onto the abutment  450  illustrated in  FIG. 9 . As explained in greater detail in the above-mentioned co-pending application Ser. No. 10/748,869, the temporary coping  500  or healing cap can help to control the healing and growth of the patient&#39;s gum tissue around the implant site. The illustrated embodiment of the coping  500  can therefore be used in combination with the dental implant  20  and the abutment  450  described above. The coping  500  can comprise a body  502  made of a synthetic polymer, such as, for example, polyester or Nylon. However, it should be appreciated that other suitable materials may also be used. The coping  500  can have an outer surface  514  that is preferably white or close to natural tooth color, so that it has a natural appearance when it is placed in the patient&#39;s mouth. 
         [0103]    The coping  500  can be at least partially hollow and include an inner surface  506  which defines an internal cavity  504 . The internal cavity  504  can be sized and dimensioned such that the coping  500  fits over the upper region  452  of the abutment  450 . The inner surface  506  can include a stop  512  for limiting the advancement of the coping  500  onto the abutment  450 , such as, a base surface that is sized and dimensioned to rest against a flanged portion or waist  458  of the abutment  450 . In some embodiments, the coping  500  can be configured to be snap fit onto the abutment  450 , and in other embodiments, the coping  470  can be configured such that it can be secured to the abutment  450  via a cap screw that can be inserted through an aperture in the coping  470 . The inner surface  506  can include an anti-rotational feature  510  that mates with the abutment  450 . Other features and embodiments can be formed by one of skill given the present disclosure. 
         [0104]      FIGS. 11A and 11B  are side and cross-sectional views of temporary healing cap  550  that can be coupled to the abutment  450  of  FIG. 9 . Additional details of the healing cap can be found in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006-0228672, which is U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/377,259, filed on Mar. 16, 2006, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. The healing cap  550  can include an inner cavity  551  defined by an inner surface  552  such that the healing cap  550  can be fitted over the abutment  450  described above. Descending from a top surface  553  of the inner cavity  551  can be a snapping element  554  comprising one or more deflectable prongs  556  configured to engage the groove  466  of the abutment  450  in a snap fit. Additional details and modified embodiments of the snapping element will be described below with respect to the component of  FIGS. 12A and 12B . 
         [0105]    Referring now to  FIGS. 12A and 12B , there is shown a perspective side and cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an impression coping or cap  120  that can be fitted onto the abutment  450  illustrated in  FIG. 9 . The impression cap  120 , can be used to take an impression of the dental implant  20 , as described in the above-mentioned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006-0228672, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
         [0106]    The illustrated impression cap  120  comprises a body  122  with a proximal end  124  and a distal end  126 . The body  122  is preferably made of resilient moldable plastic and/or polymer, such as, for example, polycarbonate. The body  122  defines an inner surface  128 , which forms an inner cavity  130 . The inner cavity  130  is configured such that the impression cap  120  can fit over the upper region of the abutment  450 . The inner surface  128  comprises a side wall  134  and roof  136 . 
         [0107]    The impression cap  120  is preferably configured to engage the abutment  450 . Specifically, the impression cap includes a complementary engagement feature  132 , which can be configured to correspond to anti-rotational features on the abutment  450 . In the illustrated embodiment, the impression cap  120  engages the abutment  450  in a snap fit that is achieved by providing the cap  120  with a plurality of resiliently deflectable prongs  150  with protrusions  152  configured to engage the recess  466  of the abutment  450 . Of course, as mentioned above, those of skill in the art will recognize other configurations for providing a snap fit between the two components. For example, the cap  120  may include a recess positioned on a post configured to engage a protrusion formed on the socket  460  of the abutment  450 . In addition, the cap  120  can be configured for friction and/or interference fits. 
         [0108]    The impression cap  120  preferably includes one or more embedment features  160 . The embedment features  160  facilitate the gripping and retention of the impression cap  120  within an impression tray. The one or more embedment features preferably define at least one interference surface  162 , having faces that lie generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the impression cap. In the illustrated embodiment, the embedment feature  160  comprises one or more flanges  166 . In certain embodiments, the flange(s)  166  may include a plurality of through holes  168 , which extend through the four corners of the flange  166 . 
         [0109]    A plurality of elongated protrusions  180  are formed on the side wall and are sized to engage the groove  466  in the abutment  450  when the impression cap  120  is positioned thereon. The protrusions  180  and grooves  51  thus mate to substantially prevent the rotation of the impression cap  120  relative to the abutment  450 . 
         [0110]    The impression cap  120  has angled surfaces  182  at the proximal end  124  that are configured to abut against the flared portion  45  of the implant  10  when the impression cap  120  is positioned thereon. It should be appreciated that, although the illustrated embodiments of the implant, abutment, healing cap, and impression cap have round cross-sections, in modified arrangements the cross-sections of one or more of these components can be can be non-round. 
         [0111]      FIG. 13A  is a side view of another embodiment of an abutment  500 . The abutment  500  can include a threaded portion  502  and a conical portion  504 . As noted above with respect to the embodiment of the abutment  400 , the abutment  500  can be configured such that the threaded portion  502  can mate with the threaded chamber  70  of the implant  20 . The conical portion  504  of the abutment  500  can be configured to be substantially conical and/or tapered. In some embodiments, the conical portion  504  can be complimentarily shaped to form a tapered or sealed fit with the conical portion  68  of the socket  66 . Further, the top portion  504  can aid the abutment  500  in being generally centered when received into the implant  20 . 
         [0112]    As also shown in  FIG. 13A , the abutment  500  can include a top surface  510  that includes a hexagonal protrusion  511 , that can be used to rotate the abutment  500  such that the threaded portion  502  engages the implant  20 . The abutment  500  provides the “stepping down” feature and advantages described above by providing a waist that emerges from the top surface of the implant  20  and thereby exposing the top surface  21  of the implant  20 .  FIG. 13B  illustrates how the abutment  500  can be seated within the implant  20 ′ and can therefore facilitate a “stepping down” connection between the implant  20 ′. Various screw and/or cement retained restorations (not shown) or other components can be coupled to the top of the abutment  500  as is known in the art. Accordingly, the abutment  500  can include a threaded socket (not shown) that opens at the top of the abutment  500 . 
         [0113]      FIGS. 14A-C  illustrate another embodiment of a component that can be used in combination with the implant  20 . Referring to  FIG. 14A , a side perspective view of an implant supported bridge  600  is shown mounted on a set of three implants  20 . The bridge  600  can be used to support one or more crowns  601 . It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the bridge  600  can have a different shape and/or be configured to be supported by more or less than three implants  20 . Further, the bridge  600  and crowns  601  can be specifically formed to complement the existing geometry of a patient&#39;s dental structures and to provide a natural appearance. In addition, it is anticipated that the features describe below with respect the bridge  600  can be extended to an implant supported denture. The bridge  601  can be formed of a single integral piece as shown or can be formed from a plurality of pieces attached to each other. In certain embodiments, the bridge  601  is made of titanium, ceramics (e.g., Zirconia or Alumina) or a combination of both materials. 
         [0114]    As shown in  FIGS. 14B and 14C , the bridge  600  can include a plurality of posts  602  that each correspond to one of the implants  20 . Each post  602  can define a substantially flat or planar lower surface  604 , which is configured to abut or rest upon the top surface  21  of the dental implant  20 . Extending from the planar lower surface  604  is a centering post  606 , which is generally configured to fit within the open end of the socket  66  of the implant  20  and to extend at least partially into the conical portion  68  of the implant  20 . The centering post  606  can have a tapered profile as shown in  FIG. 14C  or can be substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the centering post  606  does not form a tapered fit with the conical portion  68  of the implant but instead is configured to form a slip fit, providing a centering function and providing lateral stability between the bridge  600  and the implant  20 . This arrangement is advantageous because it can be difficult to use the tapered connection when attempting to couple a single bridge component to multiple implants. For example, as compared to a single restoration application, the precision required to align multiple posts into a tapered fit is significantly greater. This is because any misalignments between the bridge and the tapered portions  68  of the implant  20  would cause binding between the tapered surfaces of the post and the conical portions of the implant  20 . However, as mentioned above, the top surface  21  of the implant  20  is sufficiently wide such that it provides adequate support for the bridge  600  to be supported on the top surfaces  21  of the implants  20  and to accommodate any misalignments. As shown in  FIG. 14C , with the bottom surface  604  abutting the top surface  21  of the implant  20 ″, a coupling screw  200  can be used to couple the bridge  600  to the implant  20 ″. 
         [0115]    Accordingly, an advantage of the illustrated implant  20  is that the implant  20  can be used with both an abutment  100  configured with a tapered waist  101  that emerges from the socket  66  to increase both the volume of soft tissue and the blood supply to soft tissue as described. In addition, the same implant configuration can also be used to support an implant supported bridge  601  or implant supported denture. Accordingly, one implant can serve both purposes thereby reducing the number of parts and inventory. 
         [0116]    In accordance with another embodiment,  FIGS. 15A-B  illustrate an embodiment of an implant replica  700 . The implant replica  700  can be used in preparatory work for the creation of the implant system. As shown in  FIG. 15B , the replica  700  can be configured to include all of the same internal geometry as the implant  20 , illustrated above in  FIGS. 1A-D . In this regard, the replica  700  is preferably used in a cast molding of a patient&#39;s alveolar bone to simulate the use and facilitate the manipulation of an implant system. 
         [0117]      FIG. 15A  illustrates that the replica  700  can include an outer surface  702  and can have an upper portion  704  and a lower portion  706 . The upper portion  704  can be configured to include the features discussed above, specifically, the internal geometry as used in the implant  20 . As shown in  FIG. 15B , such internal geometry can include: an internal socket  766 ; a substantially conical or tapered portion  768  that is positioned above an interlock recess  774 , which is, in turn, positioned above a threaded portion  770  of the socket  766 ; and a sub-chamber  777  located above the threaded chamber  770 . Specific features of these elements are not listed here, but instead, can be incorporated as described above with respect to the implant  20 . Thus, the replica  700  can provide the same features and geometry as the implant  20 , but can be formed to be embedded into a mode or replica of the patient&#39;s mouth. 
         [0118]    Further, as mentioned above, because the replica  700  can be used in a cast molding of a patient&#39;s alveolar bone, the outer surface  702  and the lower portion  706  of the replica  700  can be configured to facilitate the connection and/or anchoring of the replica  700  with the mold. For example, as shown in  FIG. 15A , the outer surface  702  can include anti-rotational grooves or planar sections  710 . Further, the lower portion  706  can be configured to include a base  712  that extends radially from the replica  700  at a different radius than other portions thereof. Thus, the replica  700  can be implanted or cast within a mold in a desired fixed orientation. Other features and modifications can be incorporated by one of skill given the present disclosure. 
         [0119]      FIG. 16A  is a side perspective view of a super structure  800 , which in one embodiment can be used to create a bridge  600  or implant supported denture. As shown, the super structure can comprise first arch member  802  that comprises one or more posts  804  configured to correspond to the implants  20  positioned in a jawbone or model/reconstruction of a jawbone. As shown in  FIG. 16B , each post  804  can include an opening  807  configured to receive a coping  809 . The coping  809  (see also  FIGS. 16C-D ) can include a centering post  810  configured to fit within the socket  66  of the implants  20  and to provide a centering function without engaging the socket in a tapered fit. The coping  809 , which extends through the opening  807  in the arch member  802 , also includes a bottom surface  808  that is configured to abut against the top surface  21  of the implant  20 . The coping  809  also includes an upper portion  814  that can extend from a top surface of the arch member  802 . A coupling screw  816  can be used to attach the super structure  800  to the implant  20  and/or to a replica  700  of the implant  20 . 
         [0120]    In one embodiment, the superstructure  800  can be used in various manners to create an implant supported bridge  800  or denture. For example, the shape of the superstructure  800  can be scanned into computer and used to create the bridge. In this manner, the position and orientation of the copings can be recreated in a part that utilizes the information scanned into the computer. For example, a solid bridge can be machined from this information and/or a mold can be created. In another embodiment, the superstructure  800  can be built up and then used as part of a molding process to create a bridge. In another embodiment, the superstructure  800  can be used as part of the final bridge or an intermediate component in forming the bridge. 
         [0121]      FIGS. 17A-C  illustrate an embodiment of an abutment  900  that can be mounted onto the top surface  21  of the implant. As shown, in the illustrated arrangement, the abutment  900  can comprise a generally cylindrical body  902  having a proximal end  904  and a distal end  906 . A stepped inner bore  908  can extend through the body  902  such that the abutment  900  can be coupled to the implant  20  with a coupling member (not shown). The distal end  906  of the abutment  900  can include distal facing surface  910  that is configured to abut against and cover the top surface  21  of the implant  20 . Extending from the distal facing surface  910  is a tapered post  912  that is configured to be inserted into the socket  66  of the implant  20 . Preferably, the post  912  has a size and shape that is configured such that the post  912  does not engage the conical portion  68  of the implant  20  in a tapered or sealed fit but instead forms a slip fit. In this manner, the abutment  900  can rest against the top surface  21  of the implant. In other embodiments, the post  912  can have a cylindrical shape. 
         [0122]    The abutment  900  can be made of dental grade material such as gold or ceramic. In one embodiment, the embodiment the abutment  900  is made of gold and a plurality of abutments  900  can be positioned on a plurality of implants  20  or replicas  700 . The abutments  900  can then be coupled together by bars that are welded or otherwise attached to the abutments to form a superstructure. The superstructure can be used as part of final bridge or denture or can be used as part of a manufacturing process for forming a final bridge or denture. 
         [0123]    Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while the number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments can be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for, one another in order to perform varying modes of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims.