Immediate implant loading: the role of laser welding
An increasing number of dental laboratories are choosing laser welding as a strategic ally to deliver fast, aesthetic, and functional results for patients.
In particular, when it comes to immediate loading implantology, where precision, structural strength, and speed are essential, this technology has revolutionized the way implant-supported prostheses are made.
The laser's ability to concentrate energy on a highly localized point allows welding even around sensitive materials such as resins or ceramics without causing damage. Moreover, the use of inert gas such as Argon protects the molten metal from oxidation, ensuring a clean and biocompatible surface - an essential condition for prosthetic applications.
"Immediate-load prosthetics: welding of titanium bars to the abutments using filler wire"
Laser welding in the dental sector: the differences between traditional implants and immediate loading
The distinction between traditional implant protocols and immediate loading clearly highlights the effectiveness of laser welding in dental applications.
- In the traditional method, implants require an osseointegration period - typically between 3 and 6 months - to allow the implant to properly integrate with the bone before the final prosthesis can be placed.
-
Immediate loading (AKA “teeth in a day”) on the other hand, allows implant placement and delivery of the final prosthesis within a single day, drastically reducing waiting time and improving patient comfort. To guarantee such rapidity, the mesostructure must be extremely strong and, above all, fully passive - meaning free from tension, rocking, or insertion issues that could compromise implant stability.
Why Laser Welding in dental technology makes the difference
During laser welding, a highly focused light beam interacts with the metal alloys typically used in dental technology, such as titanium or cobalt-chromium alloys.
- Laser energy is absorbed by the metal surface and instantly converted into heat, bringing the targeted area to melting temperature within milliseconds. This creates a highly localized molten pool where the material fuses homogeneously, ensuring a robust joint free from residual stress.
- Unlike traditional welding techniques, laser welding allows sub-millimeter precision, minimizing the heat-affected zone (HAZ) and preserving the mechanical properties of surrounding materials.
- This feature is particularly relevant in complex structures such as titanium implant bars, positioned close to implant abutments and shaped according to the prosthetic framework.
Once the abutments are accurately screwed onto the model, the titanium bar is welded to create a rigid, stable structure. In some cases, welding additional retention bars further increases stability and eliminates any risk of micromovement.
"Immediate-load prosthetics with a second titanium bar welded to the abutments, added to ensure complete passivity of the structure"
Structural passivity is crucial: even a single improperly fixed abutment can generate micromovements that compromise osseointegration and lead to implant failure.
The precision of laser welding in dental technology ensures perfectly passive connections, preventing residual stress and securing long-term success in immediate loading procedures. Furthermore, by using filler material of the same alloy, direct fusion guarantees maximum structural homogeneity.
Main benefits of laser welding in dental laboratories:
- Precision and stability: Highly localized welds allow the creation of passive, stable structures from the very first fitting - eliminating rocking and insertion issues. This is essential in immediate loading, where the prosthesis must be stable immediately after surgery.
- Strength and durability: Laser welding ensures uniform heat distribution and optimal fusion of components, producing strong, homogeneous joints while reducing fracture risks and corrective interventions.
- Aesthetics and functionality: The use of Argon prevents oxidation, reducing finishing time and enabling prostheses with a natural appearance and full functional performance.
- Processing speed: The rapid welding process streamlines production, enabling technicians to complete the full prosthetic workflow - from implant placement to final prosthesis - within a single day. For laboratories, this means improved operational efficiency and simplified processes compared to traditional techniques.
A voice from the Lab: Loriano Porzi
"Loriano Porzi, owner of the dental laboratory in Spoleto, with the Orotig Evo X Tech laser welder in the background"
Loriano Porzi, owner of the Porzi Dental Laboratory in Spoleto (Italy), chose Orotig laser welding to optimize workflows and enhance production quality.
“The Orotig laser welder has improved every operational phase - from quick repairs to complex prosthetic structures. We have significantly reduced production time and increased reliability.
The laser allows us to weld bars accurately from the first trial, achieving uniform joints and fully passive structures. Mesostructures are immediately stable and ready for aesthetic completion without deformation. Patients benefit from precise, comfortable prostheses with fewer appointments”.
Porzi emphasizes how laser welding has become indispensable in his laboratory:
“In a modern dental lab like mine, having a laser welder is not just useful - it’s essential. It completely changes the way you work. It allows us to quickly complete jobs and repairs that would otherwise take days. We work better, faster, and with greater confidence.”
"Evo X laser welder with integrated microscope and camera for precision and comfort for the dental technician"