Microstructural and Topographical Characterization of Different Surface Treatments of a Surgical Titanium Alloy for Dental Implants

Abstract

To perform a topographical characterization of a titanium alloy subjected to different surface treatments using roughness evaluation, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. For each group, 6 discs of a titanium alloy had their surfaces modified by 4 treatments. All surfaces were blasted with Al2O3, cleaned, and the specimens were divided into 4 groups: G1, immersion in a standardized acid solution (SAS) (control group); G2, immersion in acetone, followed by immersion in SAS; G3, immersion in acetone, followed by immersion in SAS, followed by immersion in nitric acid; G4, immersion in acetone, followed by immersion in SAS, followed by immersion in sulfuric acid. Roughness parameters were determined with a roughness tester, and data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance and Tukey tests (α = 5%). Regarding the roughness parameters, no significant differences were found. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy showed irregular surfaces with the presence of particles uniformly deposited on the surfaces. A similar roughness pattern was created for all the groups. The images and topographic profiles indicated that all the groups showed high levels of roughness.