Stefan Holst: The importance of a system. Interface precision in conical connection implants.

A key aspect of performance assessment is that a system is only as strong as its weakest link, and that the performance of any component depends not only on the component itself, but also on its interactions within the system. The interface between implant and abutment is critical for joint stability. Manual adjustment of a cast or substitute abutment can alter the contact angle and contact length. This can result in an undefined contact situation that could bring unknown risks to the patient. Consequently, selecting the matching abutment is crucial for system performance, as it not only affects the fit of the restoration on the implant itself, but as it may also impact performance-relevant parameters.

Dr. Stefan Holst graduated from the Medical University of Hanover Dental School in 1999. He followed this with a postgraduate education at the Louisiana State University, Dept. of Prosthodontics, New Orleans, US, before becoming a full-time Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Erlangen, Germany. There, among other responsibilities, he headed the CAD/CAM research laboratories for 11 years prior to joining Nobel Biocare in 2013. In his current position as the Global Head of Research, Science and Regulatory Affairs, Dr. Holst is responsible for developing and executing the research and science strategy to further develop and support the company’s portfolio of implants, prosthodontics and regenerative products.  His background as a researcher, clinician and manager in the medical device arena make him a highly sought-after public speaker and contributor to scientific meetings. He is also currently Adjunct Professor for Restorative Dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania.