Abstract
A mismatch of elastic modulus values could result in undesirable bone resorption around the dental implant. The objective of this study was to optimize direct metal laser sintering (DMLS)-manufactured Ti6Al4V dental implants’ design, minimize elastic mismatch, allow for maximal bone ingrowth, and improve long-term fixation of the implant. In this study, DMLS dental implants with different morphological characteristics were fabricated. Three-point bending, torsional, and stability tests were performed to compare the mechanical properties of different designs. Improvement of the weaker design was attempted by augmentation with a longitudinal 3D-printed strut. The osseointegrative properties were evaluated. The results showed that the increase in porosity decreased the mechanical properties, while augmentation with a longitudinal weight-bearing strut can improve mechanical strength. Maximal alkaline phosphatase gene expression of MG63 cells attained on 60% porosity Ti6Al4V discs. In vivo experiments showed good incorporation of bone into the porous scaffolds of the DMLS dental implant, resulting in a higher pull-out strength. In summary, we introduced a new design concept by augmenting the implant with a longitudinal weight-bearing strut to achieve the ideal combination of high strength and low elastic modulus; our results showed that there is a chance to reach the balance of both biologic and mechanical demands.
Highlights
Several factors influencing the osseointegration of dental implants include biocompatibility of implant material, implant surface and design, healthy implant bed and good bone quality, surgical technique, adequate healing phase, and loading conditions [1]
More advanced techniques that have the capability of controlling the structures
To achieve the ideal dental implant requirement of a combination of high strength and low elastic modulus, we introduced a new design concept that by augmenting the implant with a longitudinal weight-bearing strut, there is a chance to reach a balance of both biologic and mechanical demands
Summary
Several factors influencing the osseointegration of dental implants include biocompatibility of implant material, implant surface and design, healthy implant bed and good bone quality, surgical technique, adequate healing phase, and loading conditions [1]. The implant material, surface topography, and design are factors that may be controlled during the manufacturing process of the dental implant. The vast majority of currently available dental implants are made of commercially pure (grade 4) titanium. Because of increased failure with pure titanium implants in areas subjected to high wear or tensile strength, titanium alloy implants have emerged as an alternative choice, owing to their enhanced mechanical characteristics [2]. The reason for titanium and its alloys being the materials of choice for dental implants is their excellent biocompatibility.
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