Multi-Unit Abutment (MUA)
Multi-Unit Abutments are precision components fitted on top of dental implants to create a common, level platform for screw-retained bridges—especially in full-arch concepts like All-on-4®/All-on-6. MUAs correct implant angulation, protect the implant–tissue interface and enable accurate, repeatable prosthetic connections for long-term stability.
Why We Use MUAs
Platform Correction
Straight (0°) and angled (e.g., 17°/30°) MUAs align divergent implants to a common path of insertion.
Screw-Retained Reliability
Facilitates retrievable bridges (no cement) for easier maintenance and predictable hygiene.
Tissue Protection
Creates a stable transmucosal pathway, helping preserve soft tissues and minimise micro-movement at the implant crest.
Prosthetic Versatility
Multiple collar heights for different gum thicknesses; compatible with provisional and definitive frameworks.
When Are MUAs Indicated?
- Full-arch immediate loading (All-on-4®/All-on-6) in upper or lower jaws
- Implants with different angulations requiring a parallelised prosthetic platform
- Thin or thick soft tissues where collar height selection is critical
- Cases prioritising screw retention and retrievability over cemented solutions
Clinical Workflow
- Planning: CBCT and digital smile design determine implant positions and MUA angulation/collar height.
- Surgery: Implants placed; MUAs selected chairside for best emergence and prosthetic access.
- Immediate Provisional: In full-arch cases, a screw-retained provisional bridge is often fitted same/next day.
- Definitive Bridge: After healing, a CAD/CAM titanium or Cr-Co framework with ceramic/composite layering is delivered.
Maintenance & Aftercare
Daily hygiene around the MUA sites is essential—use super-floss/interdental brushes and water flossers as advised. Periodic professional cleaning and screw torque checks maintain stability. Because restorations are screw-retained, they can be removed and serviced without damaging the framework or implants.
Screw-Retained vs. Cement-Retained
MUAs allow us to avoid excess cement—a known risk for peri-implant inflammation—while providing precise fit and easy retrieval. Access holes are discreetly positioned and sealed with aesthetic materials after torqueing to manufacturer specifications.
Safety & Comfort
Placement is done under local anaesthesia (sedation available). Mild tenderness is possible for 24–48 hours. Our digital protocols ensure correct collar selection and angulation, protecting soft tissues and bite function.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are long-term prosthetic components designed to remain in place. If needed, they are retrievable and can be serviced or replaced.
No. When properly selected and torqued, MUAs distribute forces favourably and provide a stable, prosthetic interface.
Screw retention avoids hidden excess cement and lets us remove the bridge for hygiene or repairs—often a safer long-term strategy.
Access holes are planned in low-visibility areas and sealed with tooth-coloured materials, blending with the final aesthetics.