Abstract: A dental implant comprises a composition which comprises a polymeric material which is preferably polyetheretherketone, and an apatite, for example a hydroxy-containing apatite. A prosthodontics device may comprise a dental implant made from polyetheretherketone, an abutment, also made from PEEK, and a crown, which is also made from PEEK by machining from a PEEK disc.

Abstract: A method for forming an integrated or repaired dental framework is disclosed. Portions of dental framework formed of a polymeric material are provided with a male member on a joint surface of one portion and a female member on a joint surfaces of second portion, with the male and female members arranged to mate together to hold the portions together at the joint surfaces and then welded together by ultrasonic welding. Integrated dental frameworks formed by the method using sequential moulding of portions of a patient's mouth are also disclosed. Apparatus and methods for forming a dental prosthetic item such as a portion of such a framework, or a repair piece, by injecting a flowable thermoplastic composition into a mould under pressure, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of making a prosthetic dental item comprises selecting a block having a square or rectangular cross-section along is extent, wherein said block comprises polyetheretherketone and, optionally, an apatite, wherein said polymeric material has a crystallinity of at least 25%. The method comprises machining the block in dependence upon data collated using digital technology. Since the crystallinity of the material selected is high, a post-machining step whereby crystallinity is increased can be avoided, and dental items of high precision can be formed.

Abstract: A dental implant comprises a composition which comprises a polymeric material which is preferably polyetheretherketone, and an apatite, for example a hydroxy-containing apatite. A prosthodontics device may comprise a dental implant made from polyetheretherketone, an abutment, also made from PEEK, and a crown, which is also made from PEEK by machining from a PEEK disc.