Surface and Interface of Artificial Bio-materials. Surface Modification of Dental Implants.

Abstract

Dental implants require mechanical compatibility such as strength and wear resistance as well as surface compatibility with a host tissue in order to reduce their impact as foreign bodies. To satisfy these two requirements, it is preferable to utilize metal surfaces modified with functional ceramics, polymer materials or proteins. Since dental implants are used in contact with various tissues, it is necessary to have optimum surface compatibility with the host bone tissues, subepithelial connective tissues and epithelial tissues. Furthermore, dental implants are required to remain plaque-free at the surface exposed to the oral cavity. Such materials can be created under well-controlled conditions by modifying the surface topography and surface chemistry of metals that are in contact with those tissues.