Degradation of dental implants

Abstract

In this chapter, the degradation of dental implants is discussed. First, the dental implant system and the biological environment surrounding it are explained. Hydroxyapatite coating layer is sometimes fractured, causing loosening and infection, as discussed too. To understand biodegradation of dental implants, general properties and electrochemical properties must be understood. The passive surface oxide film on titanium and the reconstruction of the passive film are significant to understand an electrochemical degradation or corrosion of titanium. On the other hand, the release of metallic ions from titanium and the behavior of the released ions govern the biological reaction or toxicity. Of course, the contamination of implant surface is important to determine the tissue compatibility. The fracture of dental implants is also discussed. Finally, biofilm formation on dental implant, inducing infection, is explained.