In vitro evaluation of bio-functional performances of Ghimas titanium implants

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Implantology
• Surface Engineering

Background:

• Titanium's widespread use in dental implants is linked to its oxide films, enhancing biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and bacteriostatic action.
• Surface roughness of titanium implants is critical for improving implant-to-bone contact and osseointegration.
• Understanding the impact of surface treatments on titanium implant properties is essential for clinical success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the composition, surface roughness, and biocompatibility of Ghimas implants and mini-implants after sandblasting with Calcium Magnesium Carbonate (CaMg(CO3)2).
• To investigate the effect of this surface treatment on osteoblast behavior and potential for in vivo integration.

Main Methods:

• Surface characterization using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD).
• Biocompatibility assessment through morpho-functional tests including MTT and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) assays.
• Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) to observe osteoblast actin cytoskeletal modifications.

Main Results:

• XRD and EDX analyses confirmed the high purity of the treated titanium materials.
• Surface geometry and chemical properties were well-defined, correlating with elevated biocompatibility.
• CLSM revealed active osteoblast behavior, indicating cells adapted to the chemico-mechanical stimuli at the implant interface.

Conclusions:

• Sandblasting with Calcium Magnesium Carbonate (CaMg(CO3)2) yields titanium implants with excellent biocompatibility and favorable surface properties.
• The observed osteoblast response suggests effective integration of these implants with alveolar bone in vivo.
• This surface treatment holds promise for improving dental implant performance and patient outcomes.