Effects of the surface properties of titanium implant on cell attachment and growth

Abstract

Introduction The modification of surface properties of titanium implants can offer a way of enhancing implant–bone interaction. One of the most researched properties is surface roughness or topography. Different degrees of roughness can have different responses from bone cells. Methodology - Data collection: Different types of studies (in vitro, in vivo, clinical) about surface roughness and bone cell reaction were included. Studies showing a variety of degree of roughness were investigated, and research about incorporation of nano-roughness into an implant surface was conducted. - Data analysis: Studies were categorised into minimally rough, moderately rough, rough and incorporation of nano-roughness. Results There was a beneficial response from bone cells to growth on rough implant surfaces, which suggests improvement in osteointegration with an increase in the degree of roughness. Clinical studies showed survival rates for implant surfaces with minimally rough, moderately rough and rough of 97%, 98.4% and 96.4%, respectively. Discussion Minimally rough, moderately rough and rough surfaces on implants have shown a chance of bone loss over 2 mm of 14%,18% and 20%, respectively. The type of surface treatment can have an impact on the chance of peri-implantitis. Conclusion The surface roughness of an implant plays an important role in enhancing osteointegration. Different factors can affect the determination of the optimal degree of surface roughness.