Surface observation of thin hydroxyapatite-coated implants at 80 months after insertion

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Implantology
• Materials Engineering

Background:

• Hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings are utilized to enhance osseointegration of titanium (Ti) dental implants.
• The long-term stability and osseointegration efficacy of HA coatings produced by thermal decomposition require further investigation.

Observation:

• Analysis of retrieved HA-coated implants after 80 months revealed significant dissolution of the HA layer.
• Extensive osseointegration was observed, characterized by direct bone-to-titanium (Ti) bonding where the HA coating had disappeared.
• Calcium titanate (CaTiO(3)) and HA layers formed via thermal decomposition demonstrated no desorption.

Findings:

• The HA coating applied through thermal decomposition largely dissolved over 80 months in vivo.
• Osseointegration was successfully achieved through direct bonding between the titanium implant surface and bone tissue.
• The underlying CaTiO(3) and HA layers remained stable without desorption.

Implications:

• Thin HA coatings produced by thermal decomposition exhibit positive clinical potential for dental implants.
• The study highlights the capacity for direct bone-Ti bonding after HA layer dissolution, ensuring implant stability.
• This method offers a promising surface modification strategy for improving dental implant osseointegration.