In Vitro Assessment of Titanium Particle Release During Simulated Surgical Insertion of Dental Implants

Abstract

Background: Titanium dental implants are widely used due to their excellent biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance. However, the process of insertion can lead to the exfoliation of titanium particles, which may influence osseointegration and contribute to peri-implantitis. This study aims to evaluate the extent of titanium exfoliation during simulated surgical insertion of dental implants in an artificial bone model.

Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, a total of 30 titanium dental implants (n = 10 per group) were inserted into standardized artificial bone blocks using a simulated surgical insertion protocol. Three different insertion torques were applied: Low Torque (25 Ncm), Medium Torque (35 Ncm), and High Torque (45 Ncm). Particulate debris was collected during the insertion process using filter membranes and analyzed through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) to quantify and characterize the titanium particles released. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results: The results indicated a significant increase in titanium particle exfoliation with increasing insertion torque. The mean particle count observed was 120 ± 10 particles for Low Torque, 210 ± 15 particles for Medium Torque, and 350 ± 20 particles for High Torque (p < 0.05). The SEM and EDS analyses confirmed that the particles primarily consisted of titanium, with sizes ranging from 0.1 µm to 2.5 µm.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that titanium exfoliation occurs during simulated surgical insertion of dental implants, with higher insertion torques leading to greater particle release. The findings highlight the need for further investigation into the biological implications of titanium particle exfoliation and the development of techniques to minimize this phenomenon