Corrosion aspect of dental implants—An overview and literature review

Abstract

The use of metals and their alloys in restorative and\rimplant dentistry dates back to centuries. Titanium (Ti) is one of the most\rwidely used biomaterial for medical implants because of its excellent\rmechanical properties and exceptional\rbiocompatibility. The good biocompatibility of Ti is related to the thin\roxide layer formed on Ti surface. TiO2 is inactive with the surrounding\rbiological environment and quite compatible with living tissues. However, TiO2 layer can be destroyed during movements between implant and bone tissue under\rloading condition. The localized destruction causes corrosion of the implant,\rthus, weakening it; and can induce the leak of small metallic particles or\rions into living tissues. This article highlights a review of the various\raspects of corrosion and biocompatibility of dental titanium implants as well\ras suprastructures, and the methods to prevent it.