Patent Publication Number: US-2020297463-A1

Title: Implantable abutments, abutment systems, and methods of operation thereof

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to apparatus for retaining one or more dental prostheses in an oral cavity of a user and, more specifically, to improved implantable abutments, abutment systems, and methods of operation thereof. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The use of dental prostheses to replace missing or damaged teeth is commonplace. Typically, artificial roots or hollow screw-type implants are implanted into the jawbone of the patient and are used to provide structural support to a separate abutment piece that acts as an intermediary between the implant and the artificial teeth or crown. The artificial teeth or crown is often fastened to the abutment typically by screws, adhesives, or a combination thereof. 
       FIGS. 1A to 1D  illustrate partial cross-sectional side views of one example of a traditional implant procedure with a crown being secured within a mouth of a patient. Depending upon the number of teeth to be replaced, one or more holes can be drilled into the patient&#39;s alveolar bone or alveolar process. As shown in  FIG. 1A , a portion of the patient&#39;s gums or gingiva  14  can be cut open to expose the underlying bone  10  into which a drill bit  16  can be used to bore open a hole  12 . An anchoring implant  18  (for example, a hollow threaded screw) can be implanted within the hole  12  and covered by the gingiva  14  or gums of the patient to allow for healing and for the implant  18  to take hold within the bone  10 , as shown in  FIG. 1B . 
     Once the implant  18  has been desirably positioned within the bone  10 , an abutment  20  can be securely attached to the implant  18 , for example, by a threaded pin  22  coupling to an implant receiving well  24  defined within the implant  18  as shown in  FIG. 1C . With the abutment  20  secured to the implant  18 , an oral appliance  26  or dental prosthesis, such as a crown, can be secured upon the abutment  20  by utilizing a number of securement mechanisms, such as cement or a fastener such as a screw. Other securement mechanisms can include interference fittings, magnets, or a combination thereof. 
     Because the implant, abutment, and oral appliance are subjected to high compressive and shear forces, proper attachment of the oral appliance is an important step of the implantation procedure. While cement or other adhesives are commonly used to attach the oral appliance to the abutment, such adhesives provide little tolerance for mistakes once the adhesive has set because of the difficulty and expense in removing a cemented oral appliance from the abutment. In addition, dental professionals often apply too much cement to the area surrounding the abutment. Such excess cement has been shown in studies to be associated with high rates of peri-implant disease in patients receiving certain oral appliances. See Wilson, Thomas G. The positive relationship between excess cement and peri-implant disease: a prospective clinical endoscopic study.  Journal of Periodontology  2009: 80: 1388-1392. Moreover, the interface between the implant and the abutment (such as any holes or cavities for receiving screws or other type of fasteners) can attract bacteria and result in infection. 
     Accordingly, there exists a need for devices and systems which can improve the implantation procedure but also allow for the removal and/or repositioning of the dental prosthesis without causing unnecessary damage to the dental prosthesis. In addition, such devices and systems should also reduce the complexity of traditional dental implant systems and be cost-effective to manufacture. 
     SUMMARY 
     Improved devices, systems, and methods for securing a dental prosthesis within an oral cavity of a subject are disclosed. In one embodiment, an implant system comprises an implantable abutment comprising a threaded fixation portion and an abutment portion. At least part of the threaded fixation portion can be configured to be implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. Moreover, at least part of the abutment portion can be configured to protrude beyond the gingiva of the subject. In some embodiments, at least part of the threaded fixation portion and the abutment portion can protrude out of the gingiva of the subject when the implantable abutment is implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. 
     In one embodiment, the dental prosthesis can be a dental crown. In other embodiments, the dental prosthesis can be at least part of a bridge, partial overdenture, or a complete overdenture. 
     The system can also comprise a sleeve comprising a sleeve frame and a plurality of locking tabs. The sleeve can be configured to fit over at least a portion of the abutment portion. 
     A subset of the plurality of locking tabs can be configured to project radially inward relative to the sleeve frame to secure the sleeve to the abutment portion. 
     The system can also comprise a coping comprising a coping exterior surface configured to be adhered to the dental prosthesis. The coping can be configured to be placed over the sleeve when the sleeve is secured to the abutment portion. Another subset of the plurality of locking tabs can be configured to project radially outward relative to the sleeve frame to secure the coping to the sleeve. 
     The threaded fixation portion can be defined by an exterior tubular profile (e.g., a substantially cylindrical exterior tubular profile). In some embodiments, the abutment portion can be set within the exterior tubular profile such that no part of the abutment portion exceeds a lateral boundary of the exterior tubular profile. 
     The abutment portion can be angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the threaded fixation portion. In some embodiments, the abutment portion can be angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the threaded fixation portion at an angle of about 13 degrees. In other embodiments, the abutment portion can be angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the threaded fixation portion at an angle of about 26 degrees. 
     The system can also comprise an insertion cap configured to be placed over the abutment portion as part of the implantation or installation procedure. The insertion cap can further comprise a tool coupling feature for detachably engaging with a rotatable drive tool used to apply torque to the implantable abutment. In some embodiments, the insertion cap can detachably engage with at least a portion of the threaded fixation portion. 
     A method of securing a dental prosthesis within an oral cavity of a subject is also disclosed. The method can comprise securing an implantable abutment within an oral cavity of a subject. The implantable abutment can comprise a threaded fixation portion and an abutment portion. At least part of the threaded fixation portion can be implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject and at least part of the abutment portion can extend beyond the gingiva of the subject. 
     The method can also comprise introducing a sleeve comprising a plurality of locking tabs on to a part of the abutment portion. A subset of the plurality of locking tabs can project radially inward relative to the sleeve frame to secure the sleeve to the abutment portion. The method can also comprise introducing a coping comprising a coping surface configured to be adhered to the dental prosthesis on to a part of the sleeve when the sleeve is secured to the abutment portion. 
     The method can also comprise capping the abutment portion with an insertion cap as part of an implantation or installation procedure. The method can further comprise applying torque to the implantable abutment using a rotatable drive tool configured to detachably engage with a tool coupling feature of the insertion cap. The insertion cap can detachably engage with at least a portion of the threaded fixation portion. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A to 1D  illustrate partial cross-sectional profiles of a traditional implant procedure. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a system for adjustably retaining a dental prosthesis. 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates an abutment portion of an implantable abutment fitting within an exterior tubular profile of the threaded fixation portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a sleeve and abutment portion of an implantable abutment fitting within an exterior tubular profile of the threaded fixation portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates an angled abutment portion of an embodiment of an implantable abutment fitting within an exterior tubular profile of the threaded fixation portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates an angled abutment portion of another embodiment of an implantable abutment fitting within an exterior tubular profile of the threaded fixation portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates an embodiment of an abutment portion of the implantable abutment comprising a polygonal projection. 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates a top plan view of the abutment portion comprising the polygonal projection. 
         FIG. 5C  illustrates an embodiment of an abutment portion of the implantable abutment comprising a polygonal recess. 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates an embodiment of an insertion cap configured to be placed over the abutment portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the insertion cap being placed over the abutment portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIG. 6C  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the insertion cap. 
         FIG. 6D  illustrates an insertion cap being placed over an embodiment of the implantable abutment having an angled abutment portion. 
         FIG. 6E  illustrates another embodiment of the insertion cap having a threaded engagement portion. 
         FIGS. 7A to 7D  illustrate different thread patterns of the threaded fixation portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIGS. 8A to 8D  illustrate variations of the sleeve in a splayed configuration. 
         FIGS. 9A to 9B  illustrate steps of a method for securing a dental prosthesis within an oral cavity of a subject using components of the system disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a variation of a coping covering the sleeve secured to the abutment portion of the implantable abutment. 
         FIGS. 11A to 11C  illustrate steps of a method for removing the dental prosthesis from the implantable abutment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a system  100  for adjustably retaining a dental prosthesis  102 . The system  100  can comprise an implantable abutment  104  and a securement sleeve  106  configured to be secured to the implantable abutment  104 . The sleeve  106  can be adjustably secured such that the sleeve  106  can be decoupled or separated from the implantable abutment  104  (and secured again). The system  100  can also comprise a coping  108  configured to be adjustably secured to the securement sleeve  106 . The dental prosthesis  102  can be affixed to the coping  108  via adhesives, cement, an interference fit, or a combination thereof. 
     The implantable abutment  104  can comprise a threaded fixation portion  110  and an abutment portion  112 . The abutment portion  112  can comprise an abutment top  114 , an abutment base  116 , and a substantially conical frustum  118  disposed in between the abutment top  114  and the abutment base  116 . 
     At least part of the threaded fixation portion  110  can be configured to be implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject when the system  100  is used to retain the dental prosthesis  102  within the oral cavity of the subject. In some embodiments, the threaded fixation portion  110  can be implanted within or coupled to a pre-existing portion of a subject&#39;s dentition, such as to a part of a root or pulp chamber of the subject. 
     Moreover, at least part of the abutment portion  112  (e.g., the abutment top  114  and at least part or all of the abutment base  116  and the frustum  118 ) can be configured to protrude beyond the gingiva or gum tissue of the subject when the threaded fixation portion  110  is implanted within the oral cavity. The system  100  and system components disclosed herein can be utilized in any number of locations within the oral cavity of the subject including, for example, along the maxilla or mandible of the subject. In addition, while a singular instance of the implantable abutment  104  is shown in the figures, it is contemplated by this disclosure that one subject can have multiple instances of the implantable abutment  104  implanted within the oral cavity of the subject. 
     The abutment portion  112  can be directly connected to or integrated with the threaded fixation portion  110 . The abutment portion  112  can be directly connected to or integrated with the threaded fixation portion  110  without an intervening fastener. For example, the abutment portion  112  can be directly connected to or integrated with the threaded fixation portion  110  by being a shaped or formed end of the threaded fixation portion  110  (e.g., a shaped or formed end of a threaded screw). In other embodiments, the abutment portion  112  can be affixed, attached, or otherwise fixedly coupled to the threaded fixation portion  110 . In these embodiments, the abutment portion  112  can be affixed, attached, or otherwise fixedly coupled to the threaded fixation portion  110  without an intervening screw or fastener. When the abutment portion  112  is connected, integrated with, or fixedly coupled to the threaded fixation portion  110 , the implantable abutment  104  can be considered a one-piece implantable abutment. 
     One advantage of the abutment portion  112  being directly connected to or integrated with the threaded fixation portion  110  is that the abutment portion  112  is less susceptible to bacterial infection over time. Moreover, the entire implant system  100  requires less components and the complexity of the entire implant procedure is reduced. 
     The securement sleeve  106  can comprise a sleeve frame  120  and a plurality of locking tabs  122  or flaps. The plurality of locking tabs  122  can extend longitudinally along a lateral surface of the sleeve  106 . The securement sleeve  106  can be configured to fit over or on the frustum  118  of the abutment portion  112 . For example, the securement sleeve  106  can circumferentially surround the frustum  118  when the sleeve  106  is fitted over or placed on the frustum  118 . As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, a subset of the plurality of locking tabs  122  can be configured to project radially inward relative to the sleeve frame  120  to secure the sleeve  106  to the abutment portion  112 . The sleeve  106  can be secured to the abutment portion  112  when at least one of the plurality of locking tabs  122  physically contacts or lodges against an abutment undercut  124  defined in between the frustum  118  and the abutment top  114 . 
     The implantable abutment  104  can be fabricated from or be made in part of a number of biocompatible materials. For example, the implantable abutment  104  can be fabricated from or be made in part of titanium or titanium alloys, gold or gold alloys, stainless steel, nickel-titanium alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, cobalt-chromium alloys, or a combination thereof. The abutment portion  112  can be sized and/or shaped to accommodate the securement sleeve  106 . The abutment portion  112  or parts thereof can comprise features disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,855,120, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entireties. 
     The coping  108  can be a cap or covering serving as a platform or accommodating base for the dental prosthesis  102 . The coping  108  can be configured to be placed over the sleeve  106  when the sleeve  106  is secured to the abutment portion  112 . For example, the interior surface of the coping  108  can be shaped or defined to fit over or onto the abutment portion  112  or a combination of the abutment portion  112  and the sleeve  106  secured to the abutment portion  112 . In the variation shown in  FIG. 2 , the coping  108  can be shaped substantially as a thimble or frustoconic having rounded edges. In other embodiments, the coping  108  can be shaped substantially as a cylinder, a conic, or a polyhedron. The dental prosthesis  102  can be affixed, attached, or otherwise coupled to a coping exterior surface  126 . The dental prosthesis  102  can be affixed or otherwise coupled to the coping exterior surface  126  by a biocompatible adhesive or luting agent such as resin cements, glass-ionomer (GI) cements, resin-modified glass-ionomer cements (RMGICs), zinc phosphate luting agents, zinc polycarboxylate luting agents, or a combination thereof. The coping exterior surface  126  can be a smooth or unabraded surface or an etched or abraded surface. 
     As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, a subset of the plurality of locking tabs  122  can be configured to project radially outward relative to the sleeve frame  120  to secure the coping  108  to the sleeve  106 . The sleeve  106  can secure the coping  108  to the sleeve  106  when the sleeve  106  is secured to the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104 . 
     Although not shown in the figures, the system  100  can also comprise a seal or gasket configured to be placed in between the coping  108  and at least one of the abutment base  116  and a top surface of the threaded fixation portion  110 . The seal can serve as a cushioning layer or interface between the coping  108  and the abutment base  116  or the top of the threaded fixation portion  110 . The seal can be fabricated from or be made in part of any number of biocompatible materials or biocompatible elastomers such as silicone, polyurethane, rubber or other thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), or a combination thereof. 
       FIG. 2  also illustrates that the securement sleeve  106  can have a low-profile configuration  128 . The low-profile configuration  128  can be a formation or arrangement of the securement sleeve  106  when the locking tabs  122  are straightened or flush with respect to a lateral surface of the sleeve frame  120 . The securement sleeve  106  can also be considered to be in the low-profile configuration  128  when the locking tabs  122  do not project radially inward or radially outward relative to the lateral surface of the sleeve frame  120 . In other variations, the securement sleeve  106  can be considered to be in the low-profile configuration  128  when the locking tabs  122  project less radially inward or outward relative to the lateral surface of the sleeve frame  120  than the securement sleeve  106  in a locking configuration  900  (see  FIG. 9C ). 
     Moreover,  FIG. 2  illustrates that the sleeve can have a sleeve height dimension  200 , a base sleeve diameter  202 , and a top sleeve diameter  204 . The sleeve height dimension  200  can be a height of the securement sleeve  106  as measured from the base of the sleeve  106  to the top of the sleeve  106  when the sleeve  106  is in a tapered or substantially frustoconical (i.e., truncated conical) configuration. The sleeve height dimension  200  can range from about 2.0 mm to about 6.0 mm. More specifically, the sleeve height dimension  200  can range from about 2.5 mm to about 5.0 mm. 
     The base sleeve diameter  202  can be a diameter of the securement sleeve  106  as measured at the base of the sleeve  106  (e.g., at the base of the frustoconical-shaped sleeve). The base sleeve diameter  202  can range from about 2.0 mm to about 4.8 mm. More specifically, the base sleeve diameter  202  can range from about 3.0 mm to about 4.5 mm. 
     The top sleeve diameter  204  can be a diameter of the securement sleeve  106  as measured at the top of the sleeve  106  (e.g., at the top of the frustoconical shaped sleeve). The top sleeve diameter  204  can range from about 0.5 mm to about 4.0 mm. More specifically, the top sleeve diameter  204  can range from about 2.5 mm to about 3.5 mm. 
     For example, one variation of the securement sleeve  106  can have a sleeve height dimension  200  of about 2.5 mm, a base sleeve diameter  202  of about 3.8 mm, and a top sleeve diameter  204  of about 3.0 mm. In some instances, this variation of the securement sleeve  106  can be used to secure a dental prosthesis  102  configured to replace a bicuspid, a cuspid, or an incisor. 
     Another variation of the securement sleeve  106  can have a sleeve height dimension  200  of about 3.5 mm, a base sleeve diameter  202  of about 4.5 mm, and a top sleeve diameter  204  of about 4.0 mm. In some instances, this variation of the securement sleeve  106  can be used to secure a dental prosthesis  102  configured to replace a molar. 
     In some embodiments, the dental prosthesis  102  can be a crown. In other embodiments, the dental prosthesis  102  can be at least part of a bridge, a partial overdenture, or a complete overdenture. In additional embodiments, the dental prosthesis  102  can be any type of oral appliance or tooth analogue for replacing the natural dentition of the subject. 
       FIG. 2  also illustrates that the abutment portion  112  can have an abutment height  206 , an abutment base diameter  208 , and a maximum frustum diameter  210 . The abutment height  206  can be a height dimension measured from the abutment base  116  to the abutment top  114 . The abutment height  206  can range from about 2.0 mm to about 8.0 mm. More specifically, the abutment height  206  can range from about 3.0 mm to about 6.0 mm (e.g., about 3.5 mm or about 4.0 mm). 
     The abutment base diameter  208  can be a maximum diameter as measured at the abutment base  116 . The abutment base diameter  208  can range from about 3.0 mm to about 5.5 mm. The maximum frustum diameter  210  can be a diameter of the frustum  118  as measured at the widest part of the frustum  118 . The maximum frustum diameter  210  can range from about 3.0 mm to about 5.0 mm. 
     The threaded fixation portion  110  can have a fixation portion height  212  and a fixation portion diameter  214 . The fixation portion height  212  can be measured from a distal end of the threaded fixation portion  110  (e.g., a distal or terminal screw end) to the top of the threaded fixation portion  110  or the abutment base  116 . The fixation portion height  212  can range from about 5.0 mm to about 11.0 mm. More specifically, the fixation portion height  212  can range from about 6.0 mm to about 10.0 mm. The fixation portion diameter  214  can be a diameter of the threaded fixation portion  110  as measured at the widest part of the threaded fixation portion  110  (e.g., a maximum screw diameter). The fixation portion diameter  214  can range from about 4.0 mm to about 6.0 mm. The fixation portion diameter  214  can be equal to or greater than the abutment base diameter  208  and the maximum frustum diameter  210 . 
     The securement sleeve  106  can be fabricated from or be made in part of a shape memory material such as a shape memory metal or metal alloy, a shape memory polymer, or a composite thereof. In these and other variations, the securement sleeve  106  can be fabricated from or comprise stainless steel, nickel-titanium alloys such as Nitinol, titanium, or a composite thereof. 
       FIG. 3A  illustrates that the threaded fixation portion  110  can be defined by an exterior tubular profile  300 . The exterior tubular profile  300  can be used to delineate or demarcate an exterior contour or outline of the threaded fixation portion  110 . The exterior tubular profile  300  can be a substantially cylindrical profile. The exterior tubular profile  300  can circumferentially adjoin or contact the exterior surface of the threaded fixation portion  110 . 
     The exterior tubular profile  300  can have a profile diameter  302 . In some embodiments, the profile diameter  302  can be the same or substantially equivalent to the fixation portion diameter  214 . In other embodiments, the profile diameter  302  can be slightly larger (e.g., between about 0.01 mm to about 0.5 mm larger) than the fixation portion diameter  214 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3A , the entirety of the abutment portion  112  can be positioned within or otherwise encompassed by the exterior tubular profile  300  when the exterior tubular profile  300  is longitudinally elongated or drawn out to extend past the abutment portion  112 . The entirety of the abutment portion  112  can be circumscribed by the exterior tubular profile  300  when the exterior tubular profile  300  is longitudinally elongated or drawn out to extend past the abutment portion  112 . In certain embodiments, the abutment portion  112  is sized and configured such that no part of the abutment portion  112  extends past or extends beyond the exterior tubular profile  300  of the threaded fixation portion  110  (i.e., no part of the abutment portion exceeds a lateral boundary of the exterior tubular profile  300 ). 
     The profile diameter  302  can be greater than or equal to the abutment base diameter  208 . The profile diameter  302  can also be greater than the maximum frustum diameter  210 . 
     One advantage conferred by this design is that the implantable abutment  104  is easier to manufacture as a single-piece. Moreover, as will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, an insertion cap  600  (see  FIGS. 6A-6E ) can be placed over the abutment portion  112  and the implantable abutment  104  can be rotated via the insertion cap  600 . 
       FIG. 3B  illustrates that the entirety of the securement sleeve  106  can be positioned or otherwise encompassed by the exterior tubular profile  300  when the sleeve  106  is placed on the frustum  118  of the abutment portion  112 . In some embodiments, the entirety of the securement sleeve  106 , including the plurality of locking tabs  122 , can be positioned or otherwise encompassed by the exterior tubular profile  300  when the sleeve  106  is placed on the frustum  118  of the abutment portion  112  in the locking configuration  900  (see  FIG. 9C ). In other embodiments, a segment of at least one of the locking tabs  122  can extend past at least part of the exterior tubular profile  300  when the sleeve  106  is in the locking configuration  900 . 
       FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate that the implantable abutment  104  can comprise an angled abutment portion  400 . The angled abutment portion  400  can be angled with respect to a thread longitudinal axis  402  extending through the length of the threaded fixation portion  110 . More specifically, a frustum  118  of the angled abutment portion  400  can have a frustum longitudinal axis  404  extending through the length of the frustum  118 . The frustum longitudinal axis  404  can be angled with respect to the thread longitudinal axis  402 . The angled abutment portion  400  can be fabricated from the same material(s) as the abutment portion  112  shown in  FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4A , the frustum longitudinal axis  404  can be angled with respect to the thread longitudinal axis  402  at a first angle  406  (θ 1 ). In one example embodiment, the first angle  406  (θ 1 ) can be about 26 degrees. In other embodiments, the first angle  406  (θ 1 ) can be between about 22 degrees to about 26 degrees. In additional embodiments, the first angle  406  (θ 1 ) can be between about 26 degrees to about 30 degrees. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4B , the frustum longitudinal axis  404  can be angled with respect to the thread longitudinal axis  402  at a second angle  408  (θ 2 ). In one example embodiment, the second angle  408  (θ 2 ) can be about 13 degrees. In other embodiments, the second angle  408  (θ 2 ) can be between about 9 degrees to about 13 degrees. In other embodiments, the second angle  408  (θ 2 ) can be between about 13 degrees to about 17 degrees (e.g., about 15 degrees). 
     Implantable abutments  104  comprising the angled abutment portions  400  disclosed herein are advantageous over other angled abutment assemblies. More specifically, a one-piece implantable abutment  104  comprising an angled abutment portion  400  angled with respect to the threaded fixation portion  110  at either the first angle  406  or the second angle  408  can accommodate most types of dental prostheses and can be implanted with relative ease at various locations within the oral cavity of the subject. Moreover, the angled abutment portion  400  disclosed herein (defined by either the first angle  406  or the second angle  408 ) can accommodate an insertion cap  600  (see  FIGS. 6A-6E ) to apply torque to the implantable abutment  104  to rotate the implantable abutment  104  in connection with an implantation or installation procedure. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the entirety of the angled abutment portion  400  can be positioned within or otherwise encompassed by the exterior tubular profile  300  when the exterior tubular profile  300  is longitudinally elongated or drawn out to extend past the angled abutment portion  400 . For example, the entirety of the angled abutment portion  400  can also be circumscribed by the exterior tubular profile  300  when the exterior tubular profile  300  is longitudinally elongated or drawn out to extend past the angled abutment portion  400 . The angled abutment portion  400  can be sized and configured such that no part of the angled abutment portion  400  extends past or extends beyond the lateral boundary of the exterior tubular profile  300  of the threaded fixation portion  110 . 
       FIG. 5A  illustrates an embodiment of an abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104  comprising a polygonal projection  500 . For example, as depicted in  FIG. 5A , the polygonal projection  500  can be a hexagonal projection. The polygonal projection  500  can extend from or be positioned on the abutment top  114  of the abutment portion  112 . In other embodiments contemplated by this disclosure, the polygonal projection  500  can be a triangular projection, a square projection, a pentagonal projection, an octagonal projection, or a star polygon projection. The polygonal projection  500  can be any raised polygon shape capable of fitting within a tool cavity  502  of a drive tool  504  configured to rotate or transmit torque to the implantable abutment  104 . The polygonal projection  500  can be keyed to the tool cavity  502  such that the polygonal projection  500  fits tightly within at least a portion of the tool cavity  502 . 
     The drive tool  504  can rotate the implantable abutment  104  when the implantable abutment  104  is being installed, positioned, or otherwise implanted within a bore hole made in the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. 
     In some embodiments, the drive tool  504  can be a wrench, a part of a dental drill, or any other device for transmitting torque to the abutment portion  112 . When the drive tool  504  comprises a tool cavity  502  at a distal end of the drive tool  504 , the drive tool  504  can be considered an insertion tool having a female connector or interface (e.g., a female torque wrench or female drill bit). 
       FIG. 5B  illustrates a top plan view of the abutment portion  112  comprising the polygonal projection  500 .  FIG. 5B  illustrates that the polygonal projection  500  can be substantially centered on the abutment top  114 . The polygonal projection  500  can be sized to accommodate different sized tool cavities  502  and sized based on the area of the abutment top  114 . 
     Although  FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate the abutment portion  112  as having a polygonal projection  500  protruding out of the abutment top  114 , it is contemplated by this disclosure that the abutment portion  112  can also comprise a receiving cavity  506  (e.g., a polygonal receiving cavity  506 ) as illustrated in  FIG. 5C . 
     The receiving cavity  506  can be any sunken or recessed shapes or slots defined along the abutment top  114 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 5C , the receiving cavity  506  can be a polygonal receiving cavity such as a hexagonal receiving cavity. In other embodiments, the receiving cavity  506  can be a triangular receiving cavity or recess, a square receiving cavity or recess, a pentagonal receiving cavity or recess, an octagonal receiving cavity or recess, or a star polygon receiving cavity or recess. In these embodiments, the drive tool  504  can comprise a projection rather than a tool cavity  502  at a distal end of the drive tool  504 . The projection can be keyed or paired with the shape of the polygonal receiving cavity  506 . When the drive tool  504  comprises a tool projection at the distal end of the drive tool  504 , the drive tool  504  can be considered an insertion tool having a male connector or interface (e.g., a male torque wrench or male drill bit). In some embodiments, the drive tool  504  can be a dental screwdriver bit (see, for example,  FIG. 6A ). 
       FIG. 6A  illustrates an insertion cap  600  configured to be placed over the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104 . The insertion cap  600  can completely cover the abutment portion  112  when the insertion cap  600  is placed over the abutment portion  112 . In other embodiments, the insertion cap  600  can partially cover the abutment portion  112  when the insertion cap  600  is placed over the abutment portion  112 . The insertion cap  600  can be used to transmit torque to the implantable abutment  104  as the implantable abutment  104  is being installed or implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. The insertion cap  600  can be included as part of the dental implant system disclosed herein. 
     The insertion cap  600  can comprise a cap brim  602  or a cap base. The cap brim  602  can extend radially outward beyond a lateral surface (e.g., the tapered surface) of the insertion cap  600 . As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, one or more features defined along the cap brim  602  or the cap base can engage with one or more catches or protuberances  604  extending or rising out of a rim portion  606  of the threaded fixation portion  110 . 
     The insertion cap  600  can also comprise a tool coupling feature  608  for detachably engaging with a rotatable drive tool  504 . The rotatable drive tool  504  can be used to apply torque to rotate the implantable abutment  104  during the implantation or installation procedure. 
     In some embodiments, the tool coupling feature  608  can be a receiving cavity (e.g., a polygonal receiving cavity) or a slot for receiving a rotatable drive tool  504  having a male connector or interface positioned at a distal end of the rotatable drive tool  504  (e.g., a screwdriver bit or blade tip, a polygonal projection, etc.). In other embodiments, the tool coupling feature  608  can be a projection such as a polygonal projection for detachably engaging with a tool cavity defined at a distal end of the rotatable drive tool  504 . 
       FIG. 6B  illustrates that one or more depressions  610  or recesses defined along an underside of the cap brim  602  or the cap base can fit tightly over the one or more protuberances  604  extending out of the rim portion  606  of the threaded fixation portion  110 . In other embodiments contemplated by this disclosure, the protuberances  604  can extend out of or be defined along a rimmed surface of the abutment base  116 . 
     In some embodiments, the protuberances  604  can be dome-shaped, hemispherical, cuboid, partially-ovoid, frustoconical, or a combination thereof. The depression  610  or recess defined along the underside of the cap brim  602  or cap base can correspond to or accommodate the shape or size of the protuberance  604 . For example, the depression  610  or recess can also be dome-shaped, hemispherical, cuboid, partially-ovoid, or frustoconical. The protuberances  604  can key into the depressions  610  or recesses to temporarily engage the insertion cap  600  with the abutment portion  112 . Once engaged, a rotatable drive tool  504  can be used to rotate the implantable abutment  104 . 
     Although  FIGS. 6A and 6B  show the implantable abutment  104  having two protuberances  604 , it is contemplated by this disclosure that the implantable abutment  104  can comprise three, four, five, six, seven, or eight or more protuberances  604 . 
     Moreover, although  FIGS. 6A and 6B  illustrate the protuberances  604  defined along the rim portion  606  of the threaded fixation portion  110 , it is contemplated by this disclosure that the protuberances  604  can be affixed or extend out of an underside of the cap brim  602  of the insertion cap  600 . In this embodiment, the rim portion  606  of the threaded fixation portion  110  can be defined by a number of recesses or depressions similar to the depressions  610  defined along the cap brim  602  in  FIG. 6B . The protuberances  604  extending from the insertion cap  600  can key into the depressions or recesses defined along the rim portion  606  of the threaded fixation portion  110  or a rim surface along the abutment base  116 . In all such embodiments, the insertion cap  600  can be used to temporarily engage with or interlock with the implantable abutment  104  so that torque can be transmitted to the implantable abutment  104  using a drive tool  504 . 
       FIG. 6C  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the insertion cap  600 . In this embodiment, the insertion cap  600  can comprise a narrow cap opening  612  or a constricted interior portion. The insertion cap  600  having the narrow cap opening  612  or the constricted interior portion can engage with the abutment portion  112 , the top of the threaded fixation portion  110 , or a combination thereof by seizing or clasping onto a segment or portion of the implantable abutment  104  when the insertion cap  600  is pushed or otherwise forcibly biased on to the implantable abutment  104 . For example, the narrow cap opening  612  or the constricted interior portion of the insertion cap  600  can seize or clasp onto a top portion of the threaded fixation portion  110 , the abutment base  116 , or a transition portion  614  (see  FIG. 6D ) in between the threaded fixation portion  110  and the abutment base  116 . 
     As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, in some embodiments, at least part of the threaded fixation portion  110  and the abutment portion  112  can protrude out of the gingiva of the subject when the implantable abutment  104  is securely implanted or installed within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. This allows the insertion cap  600  to seize or clasp onto at least a portion of the threaded fixation portion  110  in proximity to the abutment portion  112 . When the embodiment of the insertion cap  600  shown in  FIG. 6C  is placed over or onto the abutment portion  112 , a rotatable drive tool  504  can be used to apply torque to the implantable abutment  104  via the insertion cap  600 . 
       FIG. 6D  illustrates an insertion cap  600  being placed over an embodiment of the implantable abutment  104  having an angled abutment portion  400  (e.g., having an angle of about 13 degrees or 26 degrees as shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B ). In some instances, the implantable abutment  104  having the angled abutment portion  400  can be used when part of the subject&#39;s jawbone directly underneath the tooth to be replaced is damaged or diseased. In other instances, the implantable abutment  104  having the angled abutment portion  400  can be used to support crowns or other oral prosthesis designed to replace incisor teeth such as one or more lateral incisors or central incisors. In certain circumstances, implants having angled abutments can be preferred over implants having non-angled abutments in order to properly align the oral prosthesis with the subject&#39;s adjacent dentition. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 6D , the insertion cap  600  can completely cover the angled abutment portion  400 . A drive tool  504  (e.g., a wrench, a screwdriver, a drill, or portions thereof) can then be used to apply torque to the implantable abutment  104  having the angled abutment portion  400  once the insertion cap  600  is placed over or on top of the angled abutment portion  400 . For example, depressions  610  or recesses defined along the cap brim  602  or the cap base can engage or interlock with protuberances  604  defined along the rim portion  606  of the threaded fixation portion  110  or a rim surface of the abutment base  116 . In some embodiments, the protuberances  604  can be tilted or angled with respect to a longitudinal axis extending through the threaded fixation portion  110 . In other embodiments, the protuberances  604  can extend parallel to a longitudinal axis extending through the threaded fixation portion  110 . Moreover, in alternative embodiments not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the insertion cap  600  can have protuberances  604  extending out from under the cap brim  602  or from the cap base to engage with depressions or recesses defined along the rim portion  606  or the abutment base  116 . 
       FIG. 6E  illustrates another embodiment of the insertion cap  600  having a threaded engagement portion  616 . The threaded engagement portion  616  can refer to a thread pattern or threaded surface defined circumferentially within the interior of the insertion cap  600 . In this embodiment, the insertion cap  600  can be screwed on to a top portion of the threaded fixation portion  110 . Once the insertion cap  600  is screwed on to at least part of the threaded fixation portion  110 , a rotatable drive tool  504  can be used to apply torque to the entire assembly comprising the insertion cap  600  and the implantable abutment  104 . Once the implantable abutment  104  is secured within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject, the insertion cap  600  can be rotated in the opposite rotational direction to remove the insertion cap  600  from the implantable abutment  104 . 
       FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate that the threaded fixation portion  110  can be defined by different thread patterns or forms. As illustrated in  FIG. 7A , the threaded fixation portion  110  can be defined by a V-shaped thread pattern  700  having substantially symmetrical sides inclined at substantially equivalent angles. 
       FIG. 7B  illustrates that the threaded fixation portion  110  can also be defined by a square-shaped thread pattern  702  having symmetrical sides substantially perpendicular to the thread longitudinal axis  402 . Moreover,  FIGS. 7C and 7D  illustrate that the threaded fixation portion  110  can further be defined by a buttress-thread pattern  704  or a reverse buttress-thread pattern  704 , respectively. Screws or implants comprising the buttress-thread pattern  704  or the reverse buttress-thread pattern  704  can have non-symmetrical sides and can sometimes be more stable upon implantation than screws or implants having the V-shaped thread pattern  700  or the square-shaped thread pattern  702 . 
     The threaded fixation portion  110  can be fabricated from or be made in part of titanium or titanium alloys. For example, the threaded fixation portion  110  can be fabricated from or be made in part of grade 1, 2, or 4 titanium or another dental-grade titanium. More specifically, the threaded fixation portion can be fabricated from or be made in part of Ti6Al4V titanium alloy (e.g., 6% Al and 4% Va), titanium zirconium alloy (such as TiZr1317, e.g., titanium zirconium alloy with 13%-17% zirconium). 
       FIGS. 8A to 8D  illustrate variations of the securement sleeve  106  in a splayed or flattened configuration. As shown in  FIGS. 8A to 8D , the locking tabs  122  can have differing length dimensions.  FIG. 8A  illustrates that a variation of the securement sleeve  106  can have eight total locking tabs  122  with four inward tabs  800  and four outward tabs  802 . The locking tabs  122  can be arranged in an alternating manner with each inward tab  800  adjacent to two outward tabs  802  and each outward tab  802  adjacent to two inward tabs  800 .  FIG. 8A  also illustrates that the outward tabs  802  can include a first outward tab  804  and a second outward tab  806 . The first outward tab  804  can be separated from the second outward tab  806  by an inward tab  800 . 
     Additionally, the sleeve frame  120  can have a bottom edge  808 . The bottom edge  808  can be defined by one or more cutouts  810  along the bottom edge  808 . The cutouts  810  can be shaped substantially as half or partial-circles, half or partial-ovals, rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, or a combination thereof. The cutouts  810  or grooves can allow the sleeve  106  to more easily fold or curl into the tapered shape (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 2, 3B, 9B, and 11C ) a cylindrical shape, or any other shape. 
     The first outward tab  804  can have a first length dimension  812  and the second outward tab  806  can have a second length dimension  814 . The first length dimension  812  can be a longitudinal length of the first outward tab  804 . The first length dimension  812  can be measured from the base of the first outward tab  804  to the tip or terminal end of the first outward tab  804 . The base of the first outward tab  804  can be the portion of the first outward tab  804  connected to an upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The second length dimension  814  can be a longitudinal length of the second outward tab  806 . The second length dimension  814  can be measured from the base of the second outward tab  806  to the tip or terminal end of the second outward tab  806 . The base of the second outward tab  806  can be the portion of the second outward tab  806  connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The second length dimension  814  can be greater than the first length dimension  812 . The difference between the second length dimension  814  and the first length dimension  812  can be between about 0.10 mm and about 2.0 mm. Also, for example, the difference between the second length dimension  814  and the first length dimension  812  can be between about 0.01 mm and about 0.10 mm.  FIG. 8A  illustrates that the sleeve  106  can have two outward tabs  802  having the first length dimension  812  and two other outward tabs  802  having the second length dimension  814 . In the variation shown in  FIG. 8A , the inward tabs  800  can have the same or substantially equivalent length dimension. In other variations not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the inward tabs  800  can have differing length dimensions. Each of the inward tabs  800  can have a gap portion  818  defined along the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120  at the terminal end of the inward tabs  800 . 
     In other embodiments, the second length dimension  814  can be equal to or substantially equivalent to the first length dimension  812 . 
       FIG. 8B  illustrates another variation of the securement sleeve  106  comprising inward tabs  800  having a first inward tab  820  and a second inward tab  822 . The first inward tab  820  can be separated from the second inward tab  822  by an outward tab  802 . 
     The first inward tab  820  can have a first length dimension  824  and the second inward tab  822  can have a second length dimension  826 . The first length dimension  824  can be a longitudinal length of the first inward tab  820 . The first length dimension  824  can be measured from the base of the first inward tab  820  to the tip or terminal end of the first inward tab  820 . The base of the first inward tab  820  can be the portion of the first inward tab  820  connected to the lower portion  830  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The second length dimension  826  can be a longitudinal length of the second inward tab  822 . The second length dimension  826  can be measured from the base of the second inward tab  822  to the tip or terminal end of the second inward tab  822 . The base of the second inward tab  822  can be the portion of the second inward tab  822  connected to the lower portion  830  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The second length dimension  826  can be greater than the first length dimension  824 . The difference between the second length dimension  826  and the first length dimension  824  can be between about 0.10 mm and 2.0 mm. The difference between the second length dimension  826  and the first length dimension  824  can be between about 0.01 mm and about 0.10 mm.  FIG. 8B  illustrates that the securement sleeve  106  can have two inward tabs  800  having the first length dimension  824  and two other inward tabs  800  having the second length dimension  826 . In the variation shown in  FIG. 8B , the outward tabs  802  can have the same or substantially equivalent length dimension. In other variations not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the outward tabs  802  can have differing length dimensions. Each of the inward tabs  800 , including the first inward tab  820  and the second inward tab  822 , can have a gap portion  818  defined along the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120  at the terminal end of the inward tabs  800 . 
       FIG. 8C  illustrates that another variation of the sleeve  106  can have nine total locking tabs  122  with three inward tabs  800  and six outward tabs  802 . The locking tabs  122  can be arranged so that each inward tab  800  is adjacent to two outward tabs  802  and each outward tab  802  is adjacent to one inward tab  800  and one other outward tab  802 .  FIG. 8C  also illustrates that the outward tabs  802  can comprise a first outward tab  832  and a second outward tab  834 . 
     The first outward tab  832  can have a first length dimension  836  and the second outward tab  834  can have a second length dimension  838 . The first length dimension  836  can be a longitudinal length of the first outward tab  832 . The first length dimension  836  can be measured from the base of the first outward tab  832  to the tip or terminal end of the first outward tab  832 . The base of the first outward tab  832  can be the portion of the first outward tab  832  connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The second length dimension  838  can be a longitudinal length of the second outward tab  834 . The second length dimension  838  can be measured from the base of the second outward tab  834  to the tip or terminal end of the second outward tab  834 . The base of the second outward tab  834  can be the portion of the second outward tab  834  connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The second length dimension  838  can be greater than the first length dimension  836 . The difference between the second length dimension  838  and the first length dimension  836  can be between about 0.10 mm and 2.0 mm. The difference between the second length dimension  838  and the first length dimension  836  can be between about 0.01 mm and 0.10 mm.  FIG. 8C  illustrates that the sleeve  106  can have three outward tabs  802  having the first length dimension  836  and three other outward tabs  802  having the second length dimension  838 . In the variation shown in  FIG. 8C , the inward tabs  800  can have the same or substantially equivalent length dimension. In other variations not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the inward tabs  800  can have differing length dimensions. Each of the inward tabs  800  can have a gap portion  818  defined along the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120  at the terminal end of the inward tabs  800 . 
       FIG. 8D  illustrates that another variation of the securement sleeve  106  can comprise nine total locking tabs  122  with three inward tabs  800  and six outward tabs  802 . In the variation shown in  FIG. 8D , the locking tabs  122  can be arranged such that each inward tab  800  is adjacent to two outward tabs  802  and each outward tab  802  is adjacent to one inward tab  800  and one other outward tab  802 .  FIG. 8D  also illustrates that the outward tabs  802  can comprise a first outward tab  840 , a second outward tab  842 , and a third outward tab  844 . 
     The first outward tab  840  can have a first length dimension  846 , the second outward tab  842  can have a second length dimension  848 , and the third outward tab  844  can have a third length dimension  850 . The first length dimension  846 , the second length dimension  848 , and the third length dimension  850  can be longitudinal lengths of the first outward tab  840 , the second outward tab  842 , and the third outward tab  844 , respectively. 
     The first length dimension  846  can be measured from the base of the first outward tab  840  to the tip or terminal end of the first outward tab  840 . The base of the first outward tab  840  can be the portion of the first outward tab  840  connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . The second length dimension  848  can be measured from the base of the second outward tab  842  to the tip or terminal end of the second outward tab  842 . The base of the second outward tab  842  can be the portion of the second outward tab  842  connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The third length dimension  850  can be measured from the base of the third outward tab  844  to the tip or terminal end of the third outward tab  844 . The base of the third outward tab  844  can be the portion of the third outward tab  844  connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The third length dimension  850  can be greater than the first length dimension  846  but less than the second length dimension  848 . The difference between the second length dimension  848  and the first length dimension  846  can be between about 0.10 mm and about 4.0 mm. The difference between the second length dimension  848  and the first length dimension  846  can also be between about 0.01 mm and about 0.10 mm.  FIG. 8D  illustrates that the securement sleeve  106  can have two outward tabs  802  having the first length dimension  846 , another two outward tabs  802  having the second length dimension  848 , and yet another two outward tabs  802  having the third length dimension  850 . In the variation shown in  FIG. 8D , the inward tabs  800  can have the same or substantially equivalent length dimension. In other variations not shown in the figures but contemplated by this disclosure, the inward tabs  800  can have differing length dimensions. Each of the inward tabs  800  can have a gap portion  818  defined along the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120  at the terminal end of the inward tabs  800 . 
     Although not shown in the figures, another variation of the sleeve  106  is contemplated by this disclosure that can have nine total locking tabs  122  with three inward tabs  800  and six outward tabs  802 . The locking tabs  122  can be arranged so that each inward tab  800  is adjacent to two outward tabs  802  and each outward tab  802  adjacent to one inward tab  800  and one other outward tab  802 . The outward tabs  802  can include a first outward tab, a second outward tab, and a third outward tab. 
     The first outward tab can have a first length dimension, the second outward tab can have a second length dimension, and the third outward tab can have a third length dimension. The first length dimension, the second length dimension, and the third length dimension can be longitudinal lengths of the first outward tab, the second outward tab, and the third outward tab, respectively. 
     The first length dimension can be measured from the base of the first outward tab to the tip or terminal end of the first outward tab. The base of the first outward tab can be the portion of the first outward tab connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . The second length dimension can be measured from the base of the second outward tab to the tip or terminal end of the second outward tab. The base of the second outward tab can be the portion of the second outward tab connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The third length dimension can be measured from the base of the third outward tab to the tip or terminal end of the third outward tab. The base of the third outward tab can be the portion of the third outward tab connected to the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120 . 
     The third length dimension can be greater than the second length dimension and the second length dimension can be greater than the first length dimension. The difference between the second length dimension and the first length dimension can be between about 0.10 mm and 2.0 mm. The difference between the third length dimension and the second length dimension can be between about 0.10 mm and 2.0 mm. The securement sleeve  106  can have two outward tabs  802  having the first length dimension, another two outward tabs  802  having the second length dimension, and two additional outward tabs  802  having the third length dimension. In one variation, the inward tabs  800  can have the same or substantially equivalent length dimension. In other variations, the inward tabs  800  can have differing length dimensions. Each of the inward tabs  800  can have a gap portion  818  defined along the upper portion  816  of the sleeve frame  120  at the terminal end of the inward tabs  800 . 
     Although several variations of the sleeve  106  having different number and arrangement of locking tabs  122  are shown, it should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that other variations of the sleeve  106  are contemplated by this disclosure including sleeves  106  having less than eight locking tabs  122  or more than nine locking tabs  122 . In addition, it is contemplated by this disclosure that all of the locking tabs  122  of a singular sleeve  106  can have a different length dimension and none of the locking tabs  122  of this singular sleeve  106  can be of the same or equivalent lengths. 
       FIGS. 9A to 9B  illustrate steps of a method for securing a dental prosthesis  102  within an oral cavity of a subject using components of the system  100  disclosed herein.  FIG. 9A  illustrates that a one-piece implantable abutment  104  comprising an integrated or combined abutment portion  112  and threaded fixation portion  110  can be installed or otherwise implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. In some embodiments, the abutment portion  112  can be a substantially straight abutment portion. In other embodiments, the abutment portion  112  can be an angled abutment portion  400  (see  FIGS. 4A and 4B ). 
     During the installation or implantation step, an insertion cap  600  can be placed over or onto the abutment portion  112  to allow a drive tool  504  to apply torque to the implantable abutment  104  during the implantation procedure. In alternative embodiments, a connector or tool bit disposed at a distal end of the drive tool  504  can engage directly with a projection or cavity/recess defined along an abutment top  114 . The insertion cap  600  can be removed from the implantable abutment  104  once the implantable abutment  104  is secured within the oral cavity of the subject. 
     At least part of the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104  can protrude out of the gingiva of the subject when the implantable abutment  104  is secured within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. In some embodiments, the abutment portion  112  and at least part of the threaded fixation portion  110  can protrude out of the gingiva of the subject when the implantable abutment is implanted within the alveolar bone or alveolar process of the subject. 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates that a securement sleeve  106  comprising a plurality of locking tabs  122  can be introduced onto a frustum  118  of the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104 . The securement sleeve  106  can be in a locking configuration  900  when introduced onto the abutment portion  112 . 
     The sleeve  106  can be any of the sleeves  106  shown in  FIGS. 2, 3B, and 8A-8D . The sleeve  106  can have locking tabs  122  of differing lengths such as any of the locking tabs  122  depicted in  FIGS. 8A-8D . The sleeve  106  can be in the locking configuration  900  when one or more inward tabs  800  project radially inward relative to the sleeve frame  120 . The inward tabs  800  can lock against a tab end receiving surface  1008  of an abutment overhang portion  1006  (see  FIG. 10 ) of the abutment portion  112 . The bottom edge of the sleeve frame  120  can also push against a rimmed or edge portion of the abutment base  116  to couple or secure the sleeve  106  to the abutment portion  112 .  FIG. 9B  also illustrates that one or more outward tabs  802  can project radially outward relative to the sleeve frame  120  when the sleeve  106  is in the locking configuration  900 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9B , a dental prosthesis  102  (e.g., a crown) can be coupled to a coping  108  configured to be placed onto the sleeve  106  configured in the locking configuration  900  (and secured to the abutment portion  112 ). In some embodiments, the coping  108  can already be adhered or otherwise affixed to the dental prosthesis  102  via luting agents or other type of adhesives. In other embodiments, the coping  108  can first be put on the sleeve  106  and the dental prosthesis  102  can be adhered or affixed to a coping exterior surface when the coping  108  is positioned on the abutment portion  112 . As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, the outward tabs  802  of the securement sleeve  106  can physically push or wedge against a tab receiving surface  1004  of a coping undercut  1000  (see  FIG. 10 ) to lock the coping  108  to the securement sleeve  106 . Once the outward tabs  802  have locked the coping  108  to the sleeve  106 , the coping  108  (and the dental prosthesis  102  adhered or otherwise affixed to the coping  108 ) can be prevented from being inadvertently displaced (e.g., vertically displaced) from the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a variation of a coping  108  covering a sleeve  106  secured to the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104 . As shown in the example embodiment of  FIG. 10 , the sleeve  106  is in the locking configuration  900  when secured to the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates that the coping  108  can comprise a coping undercut  1000  defined along or otherwise set into a coping inner surface  1002 . The coping inner surface  1002  can be a tapered underside surface of the coping  108 . The coping inner surface  1002  can surround and be in physical contact with an exterior surface of the sleeve  106  including portions of the sleeve frame  120  and the locking tabs  122 . 
     The coping undercut  1000  can be an annular, partial-annular, or disk-shaped groove or indentation extending radially into the coping inner surface  1002 . The coping undercut  1000  can be defined along a lower portion or lower half of the coping  108  near a base of the coping  108 . The coping undercut  1000  can extend circumferentially around the coping inner surface  1002 . 
     The coping undercut  1000  can comprise a tab receiving surface  1004 . In some embodiments, the tab receiving surface  1004  can be a straight or substantially horizontal surface or edge. In other embodiments, the tab receiving surface  1004  can be curved or filleted edge having a radius. In further embodiments, the tab receiving surface  1004  can be a chamfered or angled surface or edge. In certain variations, the tab receiving surface  1004  can be an abraded or friction-inducing surface. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 10 , one or more outward tabs  802  can lock against the coping undercut  1000 . The outward tabs  802  of the securement sleeve  106  can lock against the coping undercut  1000 . The outward tabs  802  can lock against the coping undercut  1000  when the terminal or distal ends of the outward tabs  802  pushes against or contacts the tab receiving surface  1004  of the coping undercut  1000 . The outward tabs  802  can lock against the coping undercut  1000  to prevent the coping  108  from being inadvertently displaced (e.g., longitudinally displaced) from the implantable abutment  104 . One benefit of the securement sleeve  106  having locking tabs  122  of differing lengths is to provide tolerance for mistakes committed by the dental practitioner in placing the coping  108  onto the abutment portion  112 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the abutment portion  112  can comprise an abutment overhang portion  1006  and an abutment undercut  124  adjoining the abutment overhang portion  1006 . The abutment overhang portion  1006  can be an overhang or annular or cornice-like structure protruding radially outward relative to a lateral (tapered) surface of the frustum  118 . The abutment overhang portion  1006  can be positioned in proximity to the abutment top  114 . The abutment undercut  124  can be an annular, partial-annular, or disk-shaped groove or indentation extending radially inward relative to a lateral (tapered) surface of the frustum  118 . 
     The abutment overhang portion  1006  can comprise a tab end receiving surface  1008 . The tab end receiving surface  1008  can be an edge or surface defined in proximity to the abutment undercut  124 . The tab end receiving surface  1008  can be a chamfered, beveled, pitched, or sloped edge or surface. The tab end receiving surface  1008  can act as a receiving surface for contacting a terminal or distal end of the inward tabs  800  of the securement sleeve  106 . The tab end receiving surface  1008  can offer or present a surface aligned with the terminal or distal ends of the inward tabs  800  as the inward tabs  800  curve or bend radially inward relative to the sleeve frame  120 . 
     In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the tab end receiving surface  1008  can be a substantially flat or horizontal edge or surface. In these and other embodiments, the tab end receiving surface  1008  can be an abraded or friction-inducing surface or comprise a friction-inducing coating or surface treatment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , a plurality of inward tabs  800  can lock against the tab end receiving surface  1008  when the terminal or distal ends of the inward tabs  800  pushes against or physically contacts the tab end receiving surface  1008  when the securement sleeve  106  is in the locking configuration  900 . When the plurality of inward tabs  800  are locked against the tab end receiving surface  1008  of the abutment overhang portion  1006 , the securement sleeve  106  can be considered locked onto the abutment portion  112  such that the sleeve  106  does not become inadvertently displaced (e.g., longitudinally displaced) from the abutment portion  112 . 
     The abutment undercut  124  can facilitate the proper locking of the securement sleeve  106  to the abutment portion  112 . For example, the extra space provided by the abutment undercut  124  can allow the terminal or distal ends of the inward tabs  800  to contact or push against the tab end receiving surface  1008  without the lateral surface of the frustum  118  deflecting the inward tabs  800  away from the abutment overhang portion  1006 . Moreover, the abutment undercut  124  can prevent the lateral surface of the frustum  118  from deflecting or pushing the inward tabs  800  away from the abutment overhang portion  1006  as a result of forces exerted on the subject&#39;s dental prosthesis  102 , securement sleeve  106 , or implantable abutment  104  during normal wear. Another benefit of the securement sleeve  106  having locking tabs  122  of differing lengths is to provide tolerance for mistakes committed by the dental practitioner in placing the securement sleeve  106  onto the abutment portion  112 . 
       FIGS. 11A to 11C  illustrate steps of a method for removing the dental prosthesis  102  from the implantable abutment  104 .  FIG. 11A  illustrates that an actuator unit  1100  can be used to actuate the locking tabs  122  of the securement sleeve  106  underneath the dental prosthesis  102  to change the configuration of the securement sleeve  106  from the locking configuration  900  (see  FIG. 9B ) to the low-profile configuration  128 . 
     The actuator unit  1100  can be a handheld or portable unit. The actuator unit  1100  can comprise an actuator head  1102  and an actuator handle  1104 . The actuator unit  1100  can also comprise or be connected to a power source (not shown in the figures). 
       FIG. 11B  illustrates that the actuator head  1102  of the actuator unit  1100  can be placed over or on top of the dental prosthesis  102 . The actuator unit  1100  can comprise an inductive heating assembly comprising a controller-like variable output oscillator circuit, a conductor, and one or more coils set apart in apposition and at a distance from one another. The controller-like variable output oscillator circuit can be coupled to the conductor and the coils. The distance or gap between the coils can define a receiving channel which can be sized to be positioned over the dental prosthesis  102  (e.g., the crown) shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B . When the entire stack comprising the dental prosthesis  102 , the coping  108 , the securement sleeve  106 , and the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104  are positioned within the receiving channel of the actuator head  1102 , the controller-like variable output oscillator circuit can send an alternating current through the conductor to the coils to generate an alternating magnetic field between the coils. The alternating magnetic field can cause eddy currents to form in at least part of the coping  108 , the securement sleeve  106 , the abutment portion  112 , or a combination thereof. The eddy currents can cause at least part of the coping  108 , the securement sleeve  106 , the abutment portion  112 , or a combination thereof to heat up, thereby activating the shape memory material of the locking tabs  122  to initiate their shape change and cause the sleeve  106  to actuate into the low-profile configuration  128  (see  FIG. 11C ). 
     The frequency of the alternating current and the magnetic field can be set between about 1 kHz and about 1 MHz, depending on the size and configuration of the locking tabs  122  and the activation time. In some embodiments, the power consumption can range between about 1 W to about 150 W. The induction heating assembly can be the induction heating assembly described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,168,111, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The actuator head  1102  can also comprise a disposable or one-time use tip for covering or protecting the actuator head  1102 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11C , once the securement sleeve  106  is actuated into the low-profile configuration  128 , the coping  108  coupled to the dental prosthesis  102  (e.g., the crown) can be uncoupled or lifted off of the sleeve  106  and the abutment portion  112 . 
     The securement sleeve  106  can be fabricated from or made in part of a shape memory material (e.g., Nitinol). The sleeve  106  in the tapered frustoconical configuration can be heat treated when formed into the low-profile configuration  128  to retain the shape memory of the low-profile configuration  128  with all of the locking tabs  122  collapsed or flush with the lateral surface of the sleeve frame  120 . In some embodiments, the sleeve  106  can then be allowed to cool and manually formed into the locking configuration  900 . 
     As previously shown in  FIG. 9B , the sleeve  106  can be locked onto the abutment portion  112  of the implantable abutment  104  when the sleeve  106  is in the locking configuration  900 . A coping  108  (with or without the dental prosthesis  102  attached) can then be placed on top of or over the sleeve  106  secured to the abutment portion  112  to lock the coping  108  to the abutment portion  112 . 
     When the time comes for a dental professional to remove the dental prosthesis  102  from the abutment portion  112 , the sleeve  106  can be heated beyond a threshold temperature (e.g., the shape memory transformation temperature of the sleeve  106 ) using the actuator unit  1100  and the sleeve  106  can once again return to its low-profile configuration  128  to allow the coping  108  (and the dental prosthesis  102  attached to the coping  108 ) to be lifted off the sleeve  106  and the abutment portion  112 . In these embodiments, the sleeve  106  can return to the locking configuration  900  by actively cooling the sleeve  106  or when the temperature of the sleeve  106  falls below a threshold temperature. 
     A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. In addition, the flowcharts or logic flows depicted in the figures do not require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In addition, other steps or operations may be provided, or steps or operations may be eliminated, from the described flows, and other components may be added to, or removed from, the described systems. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. 
     Each of the individual variations or embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other variations or embodiments. Modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. 
     Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events that is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Moreover, additional steps or operations may be provided or steps or operations may be eliminated to achieve the desired result. 
     Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, every intervening value between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. 
     All existing subject matter mentioned herein (e.g., publications, patents, and patent applications) is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety except insofar as the subject matter may conflict with that of the present invention (in which case what is present herein shall prevail). The referenced items are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitled to antedate such material by virtue of prior invention. 
     Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. 
     This disclosure is not intended to be limited to the scope of the particular forms set forth, but is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of the variations or embodiments described herein. Further, the scope of the disclosure fully encompasses other variations or embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art in view of this disclosure. 
     It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the various methods disclosed herein may be embodied in a non-transitory readable medium, machine-readable medium, and/or a machine accessible medium comprising instructions compatible, readable, and/or executable by a processor or server processor of a machine, device, or computing device. The structures and modules in the figures may be shown as distinct and communicating with only a few specific structures and not others. The structures may be merged with each other, may perform overlapping functions, and may communicate with other structures not shown to be connected in the figures. Accordingly, the specification and/or drawings may be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.