Nanopores improve soft tissue integration of dental implants

The formation of a strong soft tissue seal on the abutment surface is crucial for protecting the underlying tissues from the microbe-rich environment of the oral cavity. In recent years, nanotechnology has increasingly found application in dentistry. Recently, researchers from the University of Queensland applied titanium nanopores (TNPs) to the abutment surface. The aim of the study is to modify dental implants with nanopores in order to enhance soft tissue integration and wound healing.

"Poor integration of the implant with the surrounding tissue is one of the leading causes of dental implant failure," says Dr. Karan Gulati from the University of Queensland School of Dentistry in a press release. "If a seal cannot be achieved between the implant and the surrounding gum tissue, this can lead to bacteria entering the implant surface and causing infection."

As a solution to this problem, the research team proposed the formation of nanopores — holes with a diameter of 40-80 nm — to cover the entire surface of the dental implant abutment. Using electrochemical anodization, the researchers coated titanium surfaces with mechanically strong TNPs. Compared with the titanium surfaces of the control group used in clinical practice, improved cell viability was observed on the TNPs. The researchers note that soft tissue cells attach well to the nanopores, which leads to enhanced formation of soft tissue seals.

Dental implant failure represents a serious problem, both medically and economically. "The failure rate of dental implants is usually between 5% and 10%, and for smokers it can reach 20%," explains Dr. Gulati. "It is most common in elderly patients, smokers, people with poor oral hygiene, and also in patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis." Thus, implant failure further increases the financial burden on patients, as it entails additional costs.

The researchers expect that clinical trials in humans will begin next year: "We have optimized the protocols and treatment methods, and now we are ready to turn research into reality. We are currently seeking funding that will allow us to purchase additional equipment and hire personnel in order to ensure the transition to clinical application."

The study "Anodized anisotropic titanium surfaces for enhanced guidance of gingival fibroblasts" was published in the July issue of the journal Material Science and Engineering.