Dentistry

Abstract

In Situ Biofilm Formation on Titanium, Gold Alloy and Zirconia Abutment Materials

Fadi Ismail, Michael Eisenburger, Sebastian Grade and Meike Stiesch

Background: Biofilm formation on trans-gingival implant surfaces is a common reason for local inflammation of the peri-implantary tissue and can lead to implant loss. The aim of the current in situ study was to evaluate biofilm formation on titanium, gold alloy and zirconia abutment materials directly in the trans-gingival region.
Materials and Methods: Specimens were attached to implant healing abutments and were inserted in 8 patients for 14 days. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to measure biofilm height and surface coverage.
Results: Titanium showed a mean biofilm height of 10.8 μm and a surface coverage of 26.5%. For gold alloy, a height of 14.6 μm and coverage of 27.3% was found. Zirconia had a biofilm height of 2.7 μm and coverage of 10.5%. No statistically significant difference between the three materials was found. However, zirconia tended to form less biofilm than the other materials.
Conclusion: All three materials seem to be suitable for the use as abutment material. Zirconia appeared to have the most favourable biological and aesthetic properties.