Biological evaluation of ZrO₂ composites modified with different ceramics additives

In this work, zirconia (ZrO₂) composites modified with bioactive hydroxyapatite (HAp), hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), bioglass (BG), and bioglass with copper (BGCu) via the hydrothermal method were synthesized. The aim was to obtain highly bioactive and cytocompatible materials that could combine beneficial properties of inert and bioactive ceramics. Such materials could be applied as fillers for tooth extraction cavities, guaranteeing osseintegration without the need to introduce additional bone cements or other adhesives. It was proven that while all materials were favourable towards cells adhesion and growth, the HAp and BG-doped ones facilitated early adhesion, especially when compared to unmodified ZrO₂. Only the HAp-doped materials showed satisfactory bioactivity results, with a well-developed apatite layer forming on their surfaces. This study confirms that the Hap-doped ZrO₂ is suitable for treating bone defects.