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Properties of a titanium nitride coating for dental instruments
J G Steele1, J F McCabe, I E Barnes
1Department of Operative Dentistry, Dental School, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Journal of Dentistry
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Titanium nitride coatings on dental instruments do not improve "low-stick" properties compared to polished stainless steel. Despite enhanced hardness and durability, the coating did not reduce restorative material adhesion, a common clinical issue.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Adhesion of dental restorative materials to instruments is a persistent clinical challenge.
- Optimizing instrument surface properties can improve handling and reduce material waste.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the low-stick properties and durability of titanium nitride (TiN) coatings on dental instruments.
- To compare TiN-coated instruments with polished stainless steel when used with common dental restorative materials.
Main Methods:
- Titanium nitride (5 micron) coated and polished stainless steel dies were tested.
- Adhesion of composite resins and glass ionomer cement was assessed before and after wear.
- Surface hardness, contact angle, and coefficient of friction were measured.
Main Results:
- TiN-coated instruments exhibited significantly higher surface hardness, lower friction coefficient, and higher resin contact angles.
- Contrary to expectations, TiN-coated instruments were slightly 'stickier' than polished stainless steel, even after wear.
- The TiN coating demonstrated excellent durability and no discoloration potential for restorative materials.
Conclusions:
- Titanium nitride coatings offer no significant advantage in reducing restorative material adhesion over clean, polished stainless steel dental instruments.
- While durable, the primary benefit of low-stick properties is not achieved with TiN coatings in this application.
- Further research may explore alternative surface modifications for improved anti-adhesion in dental instrumentation.