Modified Implant Surface with Slower and Less Initial Biofilm Formation

Abstract

Peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis are a raising issue in dental implantology. Peri-implant infections are mainly caused by the formation of biofilm. Different surface textures exhibit various conditions for biofilm formation resulting in several speed of maturation and development. On three different titanium implant surfaces, machined-surface (M), sandblasted large grit, and acid-etched surface (SLA) and machined-modified acid-etched surface (mod MA) initial biofilms were collected. Plaque formation was investigated by erythrosine staining and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). For testing the biocompatibility of these plaque-settled surfaces, autoclaved specimens were settled with human gingival fibroblasts, and cell viability was tested. The mean initial plaque surface was detected in the following descending order: M > SLA > mod MA. The differences between these groups were significant. The highest cell viability was detected in the M groups, whereas mod MA and SLA showed comparable results. The results of initial biofilm formation were proved by EDX. Within the limitations of this study, conclusion can be made that mod MA surface shows significant slower initial biofilm formation which could be an advantage in initial transgingival healing process and also an easement for oral hygiene of patients because maturation of plaque is retarded, and immature biofilms are easier to remove.