Differences between the bony interfaces of titanium and hydroxyapatite-alumina plasma-sprayed titanium blade implants

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Histopathology

Background:

• Titanium implants are widely used in dentistry.
• Improving the osseointegration of dental implants is crucial for successful outcomes.
• Surface modifications can enhance implant stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the bony interface of mandibular bone between titanium blade implants and titanium implants coated with hydroxyapatite-alumina.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite-alumina coating on initial implant fixation.

Main Methods:

• Histopathologic study using improved undecalcified histologic technique and image analyzing system.
• Implantation of coated and non-coated titanium implants in the mandibular molar region of 4 adult shepherd dogs.
• Analysis of bone-to-implant contact at 5, 7, 14, and 28 days postoperatively.

Main Results:

• Granulation or fibrous connective tissues observed around both implant types at 5 days.
• Osteoid regeneration noted around both implant types at 7 days, with minimal attachment.
• Significantly higher bone-to-implant contact for coated implants at 14 days (13.7%) vs. non-coated (6.0%).
• Markedly increased bone-to-implant contact for coated implants at 28 days (63.4%) vs. non-coated (8.8%).

Conclusions:

• Plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite-alumina coating is effective in enhancing the bony interface.
• The coating significantly improves initial fixation of endosseous dental implants.
• Chronological increase in bony interface observed with coated implants.