[Surface treatment of dental implants with high-energy laser beam]

In the present study the biological value of the laser prepared titanium implants has been investigated. Screw-type implants with different surface modifications were placed into the femurs of rabbits. Removal torque measurements and histological examinations were prepared. The examinations were divided into two groups. In the first part of the examinations the laser surface treatment was compared to other type of surface modifications. In the examination groups the implants were prepared with the following surfaces: 1. machined, 2. sandblasted, 3. low intensity laser surface, 4. high intensity laser surface, 5. titanium oxide coated surface. In the second part of the examinations laser treatment with different physical variables were observed. It has been concluded, that in both cases the high energy laser treated implants needed higher removal torque and in some cases an osteogenic activity was observed around them in the medullary space as well. The authors think the advantage of laser surface treatment lies in special micromorphology and the increased cleanliness of the surface.