Evaluation of the attractive force of different types of new-generation magnetic attachment systems.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Rare earth magnets have been used in prosthodontics, but their tendency for corrosion in the oral cavity and insufficient attractive forces limit long-term clinical application.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the attractive force of different types of new-generation magnetic attachment systems.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The attractive force of the neodymium-iron-boron (Nd-Fe-B) and samarium-cobalt (Sm-Co) magnetic attachment systems, including closed-field (Hilop and Hicorex) and open-field (Dyna and Steco) systems, was measured in a universal testing machine (n=5). The data were statistically evaluated with 1-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey-Kramer multiple comparison test (α=.05).

RESULTS

The closed-field systems exhibited greater (P<.001) attractive force than the open-field systems. Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference in attractive force between Nd-Fe-B and Sm-Co magnets (P<.001). The strongest attractive force was found with the Hilop system (9.2 N), and the lowest force was found with the Steco system (2.3 N).

CONCLUSIONS

The new generation of Nd-Fe-B closed-field magnets, along with improved technology, provides sufficient denture retention for clinical application.