Biomechanical and histomorphometric study of dental implants with different surface characteristics

The aim of this study was to investigate the early bone response to the titanium dental implants with different surface characteristics using the rabbit tibia model. Calcium metaphosphate coated, anodic oxidized, hydroxyapatite particle-blasted, and turned (control) surfaces were compared. Surface topography was evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscope and optical interferometer. Eighteen rabbits received 72 implants in the tibia. Resonance frequency was analyzed every week for 6 weeks. Removal torque values were measured 2 and 6 weeks after placement. The implant-bone interfaces were directly observed by light microscope and bone-to-implant contact ratios were measured 2 and 6 weeks after insertion. All the surface-modified implants showed superior initial bone responses to the control. No significant differences were found among the surface-modified groups. Data suggest that various surface modification methods can provide favorable bone responses for early functioning and healing of dental implants.