A novel technique for tailored surface modification of dental implants – a step wise approach based on plasma immersion ion implantation

Objectives A novel technique based on plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) is presented to modify titanium implant surfaces. Materials and methods Initially, the implants are cleaned with argon to remove contaminants and the nanostructures are created by the bombardment of the surface with a mix of noble gases. Desired crystal structure of the titanium is obtained by the implantation of oxygen on the contaminant-free surface with particular nanostructures. Results In this study, turned implants modified by PIII revealed a high density of rutile-TiO2 nanostructures. Turned implants used as control revealed mainly microstructures and amorphous crystal structure. Surface roughness values were similar at the microscale for both turned and turned + PIII implants. Bone response was evaluated by removal torque tests of implants placed in the rabbit tibia and femur. After 4 weeks of healing, turned + PIII demonstrated higher removal torque values (P = 0.001) compared to turned implants. Conclusions The presence of rutile-TiO2 nanostructures may explain the improved bone formation to turned + PIII implants.