Material degradation in implant-retained cobalt-chrome and titanium frameworks

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Implantology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Dental implant frameworks are crucial for full-arch restorations.
• Understanding material degradation in the oral environment is vital for implant longevity.
• Cobalt-chrome and titanium are common alloys used in dental frameworks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess in vitro material degradation of cobalt-chrome and titanium dental implant frameworks.
• To evaluate degradation before and after exposure to artificial saliva.
• To examine element leakage and surface changes in implant components.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of four full-arch implant frameworks (two cobalt-chrome, two titanium) using the Cresco™ method.
• Analysis of element leakage into artificial saliva via mass spectrometry.
• Evaluation of surface topography changes using optical interferometry before and after saliva exposure and framework connection.

Main Results:

• Significantly higher leakage of cobalt elements compared to titanium and chrome (P < 0·05).
• Implant surfaces exhibited roughening after saliva exposure and framework connection (P < 0·05).
• Titanium frameworks were consistently rougher than cobalt-chrome frameworks, both pre- and post-exposure (P < 0·05).

Conclusions:

• Active material degradation processes occur in both dental implants and framework materials.
• The findings highlight potential concerns regarding the long-term stability of these materials in vivo.
• Further research is warranted to optimize material selection and design for enhanced implant durability.