Corrosion behavior of erbium chromium-doped yattrium-scandium-gallium-garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG 2780 nm) laser-treated titanium alloy used for dental applications at different pH conditions (in vitro study)

Abstract

Titanium alloys are most often used in the design of dental implants. Although these biomaterials have good mechanical and biological properties, their corrosion resistance is still critical for the overall success of the treatment procedure. Implant failure is more likely to occur in inflammatory diseases related to low pH levels. Er,Cr:YSGG laser is most often used in implant dentistry. The aim of the this study was to assess the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser surface treatment on the corrosion behavior of titanium alloy (Ti–6Al–4V) at different pH. A total of 40 discs were used. Twenty discs were irradiated with Er,Cr:YSGG laser, which was operating in a normal room atmosphere and temperature at power 2 W. The corrosion behavior was investigated in simulated body fluid at pH of 7.40 and 5.20. At each pH, corrosion behavior was studied for up to 864 h at 192, 360, 696, and 864 h intervals using potentiodynamic polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The laser-treated and -untreated discs were examined with scanning electron microscope before and after the electrochemical tests. Laser treatment significantly improves the corrosion resistance compared to the untreated group. Immersion time and pH also significantly affect the corrosion behavior. The acidity yielded more aggressive changes on the untreated titanium alloy. Er,Cr:YSGG laser could improve the corrosion resistance of Ti–6Al–4V.