Nanophase ceramics: The future orthopedic and dental implant material

Abstract

Abstract Traditional materials utilized for orthopedic and dental applications have been selected based on their mechanical properties and ability to remain inert in vivo; this selection process has provided materials that satifisfy physiological loading conditions but do not duplicate the mechanical, chemical, and architectural properties of bone. The less than optimal surface properties of conventional materials have resulted in clinical complications that necessitate surgical removal of many such failed bone implants due to insufficient bonding to juxtaposed bone. Sufficient bonding of an implant to juxtaposed bone (i.e., osseointegration) is needed to minimize motion-induced damage to surrounding tissues and support physiological loading conditions, criteria crucial for implant success. Insufficient osseointegration can be caused by biomaterial surface properties that do not support new bone synthesis and/or mechanical properties that do not match those of surrounding bone; mismatch of mechanical properties between an implant and surrounding bone may lead to stress and strain imbalances that cause implant loosening and eventual failure. Clearly, the next generation of biomaterials for orthopedic and dental implant applications must possess both biocompatible surface properties that promote bonding of juxtaposed bone and mechanical properties similar to those of physiological bone. Due to unique surface and mechanical properties, as well as the ability to simulate the three-dimensional architecture of physiological bone, one possible consideration for the next generation of orthopedic and dental implants with improved efficacy are nanophase materials. This chapter presents reports of the design, synthesis, and evaluation of nanophase materials for increased orthopedic and dental implant efficacy.