Evaluation of cell morphology and adhesion capacity of human gingival fibroblasts on titanium discs with different roughened surfaces: an in vitro scanning electron microscope analysis and cell culture study

Background: Implantoplasty is an option in peri-implantitis treatment. What is known about the effects of implantoplasty on peri-implant soft tissue adhesion and cell behaviours is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological features and adhesion capacity of human gingival fibroblast (HGF) cells onto sand-blasted, large-grit, acid-etched (SLA (R)) titanium (Ti) discs surfaces roughened with different implantoplasty protocols.Materials and methods: The study included a total of 48 Ti discs divided into four groups (n = 12 per group): Group I: machined, smooth surface discs; Group II: SLA (R) surface discs; Group III: SLA (R) surface discs roughened with diamond bur se-quence (40 and 15-mu m grit); Group IV: SLA (R) surface discs roughened with diamond bur sequence (125 and 40-mu m grit). Following polishing procedure, the surface roughness value of discs was assessed by a profilometer and scanning electron microscope. HGFs were cultured on Ti discs and cell adhesion was examined after the 24th, 48th, and 72nd hours. Statistical significance was set at the p <= 0.05 level.Results: Scanning electron microscope analyses of the discs revealed that fibro- blasts exhibited well-dispersion and a firm attachment in all groups. The cells in group I and II had thin and long radial extensions from the areas where the nucleus was located to the periphery; however, attached cells in group III and IV showed more spindle-shaped morphology. The surface roughness parameters of the test groups were lower than those of the SLA (R). The SLA (R) group showed the highest HGF adhesion (group II) (p <= 0.05). HGF adhesion in group IV was greater compared to group III, but less than group I.Conclusions: This study showed that the characteristics of the burs applied in the implantoplasty protocol are determinant for the surface roughness and fibroblast adhesion occurs on surfaces with decreased roughness following implantoplasty. Consequently, it should be kept in mind that the surface properties of the implant may affect the adherent cell morphology and adhesion. (Folia Morphol 2023; 82, 1: 63-71)