Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the distance between the gum tissue surface to the implant, along a nonlinear surface, the height needed for determining correct abutment size. The abutment measurement device is an elongated cylindrical member or handle which terminates at both ends with a probe tip. A first probe extends from one end of the elongated member at approximately an 80 degree angle from the member axis. A second probe extends from the other end of the elongated member. The cross section of the second probe tip has a circular cross-section with a concave indentation. This concave indentation is designed to fit the curvature of the sidewall of a secondary healing cap. The concave indentation of the probe tip allows a more accurate measurement of the gum tissue depth.

Abstract: An abutment and method of its use are disclosed for securing dental appliances of other physiological appliances having a wide variety of confugurations to an implant mounted in a bony substrate, the abutment including an indexing element means forming an abutment surface surrounding the indexing element and separate threaded attachment for the appliance, either integrally with the implant or on an abutment attachable to the implant, the indexing element being formed with a cylindrical taper extending outwardly from the abutment surface and one or more, preferably six, planar facets intersecting the tapered surface adjacent the abutment surface but with portions of the tapered surface intermediate the facets extending substantially toward the abutment surface.

Abstract: A plug and method of its use are disclosed for forming a removable closure in openings of dental appliances or other physiological appliances, the plug including an elongated shaft portion having a diameter mating with the opening, and an inner or gingival end of the plug which is enlarged by up to about 5%, more preferably about 1-5% and most preferably about 1-2% relative to the elongated shaft portion, the enlarged gingival plug end being an annulus having a radial thickness of up to about 20% and more preferably about 11% of the diameter of the enlarged plug end, the enlarged plug and the thickness of the annulus being selected together with the shaft material, preferably a resilient elastomer, to produce a cork type or press-fit engagement of the enlarged plug end in the appliance opening to retain the plug firmly in place.