Influence of the physical and chemical characteristics of two surfaces implant abutments, zirconia and titanium, in adhesion of gingival epithelial cells OBA-9

Abstract

For the long term success of implants it is imperative that a direct contact between the implant and the bone is established along with the absence of inflammation. To avoid bacterial penetration which could damage both initial healing and the long-term behavior of the implants, there is the formation of an early epithelial barrier able to protect biologically the periimplantar structures. Some abutment characteristics have a crucial importance for an effective interface between the implant and soft tissue. In relation to the chemical characteristic, the titanium is still considered the gold standard and has maintained a dominant market position as a material for abutment and for implant. Nevertheless, the demand for esthetic restorations favored the introduction of ceramic abutments for implants such as zirconia. Besides the aesthetic advantage, zirconia has favorable mechanical properties and accumulated lower amount of biofilm compared to titanium. The behavior of microorganisms and mucogingival epithelial tissue in relation to different surfaces of implant abutments is still unknown. Therefore, due to the need for an effective tissue barrier around osseointegrated implants, this study aims to evaluate in vitro the influence of the physical and chemical characteristics of two abutment surfaces of the implants, titanium and zirconia, on the adhesion of gingival epithelial cells. (AU)