Experimental Analysis of Different Dental Implants Surfaces by Using Optical Methods

In this paper a novel topographical investigation of eight different biphasic implants was performed by using an interferometric and confocal apparatus and by discussing the results after a data statistical analysis. Firstly, the topography of the sample profiles was obtained thanks to an optical microscope according to ISO standard 4288-1997: the analysis was focused mainly on the analysis of arithmetical roughness R-a values since it represents one of the most investigated parameters in surface profile interpretation for a good osseointegration and the consequent prosthesis stability. Each implant was analyzed in five zones: high, middle, last, connection and potential cut area. The results showed mainly that the roughness is very variable both among the implants and inside the different zones of them with values out of the preferable range for the osseointegration. More in details, the implant machined was the smoothest as well as the connection zone whereas the high and the middle ones the roughest. Lastly, the diameter did not affect the roughness of the medical devices. However, more investigations are required in order to have a better and deeper understanding of this complex and wide biotribological field.