What enhancement could β-titanium bring to oral implantology?

Titanium and its alloys are widely used in medicine, particularly in dentistry, due to their excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However, limitations associated with commercially pure Titanium (cp-Ti) grade IV and conventional alloys such as Ti-6Al-4V require the development of alternative materials. This short review aims to highlight the potential of β-phase Titanium alloys as next-generation materials for oral implantology.

This review is based on ISO standards and clinical requirements related to dental biomaterials, with a particular focus regarding mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Literature research, was conducted targeting studies on both the mechanical and biological performance of Titanium-based materials, with emphasis on β-phase Titanium alloys.

Cp-Ti grade IV remains the most commonly used Titanium for dental implants due to its long-standing clinical use, however, it exhibits some limitations, including a high elastic modulus and limited wear resistance. Ti-6Al-4V provides enhanced mechanical strength but raises biocompatibility concerns due to potential Aluminium and Vanadium ion release. β-phase Titanium alloys, with their body-centered cubic structure, demonstrate reduced elastic modulus closer to that of bone, enhanced mechanical strength and improved corrosion resistance, making them promising candidates for dental implants applications.

β-phase Titanium alloys present significant potential to overcome the limitations of current Titanium materials used in oral implantology. Their favorable biomechanical behavior and the absence of released toxic elements, suggest improved implant performance and longevity. Nonetheless, rigorous in vitro and in vivo investigations are essential to confirm their safety, biocompatibility, and long-term clinical outcome before widespread clinical adoption.