Abstract
Objectives This in vitro study aimed to investigate the impact of bicarbonate air-abrasive powders and ultrasonic
scaling with stainless steel tips on the micro- and nanotopography and roughness of
three different implant–abutment junction titanium surfaces.
Materials and Methods Three types of sterile and decontaminated titanium surfaces (RS, UTM, XA) were used
for analysis. Nine disks per surface type were subjected to micro- and nanotopography
analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), roughness analysis, and fibroblast cultivation.
Ultrasonic debridement and air polishing were performed on the surfaces. Human dermal
fibroblasts were cultured on the surfaces for 5 days.
Statistical Analysis Data analysis adhered to ISO 25178 standards for surface texture assessment. SEM
micrographs were used to reconstruct areas for extracting roughness parameters. Excel
and Mex 6.0 software were utilized for quantitative and stereoscopic analysis.
Results The study found varying effects on surface roughness posttreatment. RS Disco samples
exhibited higher surface roughness compared with UTM and XA samples, both in average
and nanoscale roughness. Decontamination led to increased surface roughness for all
samples, particularly RS Disco. Fibroblast growth tests revealed enhanced cell network
formation on decontaminated discs, possibly due to increased nanoscale roughness or
the presence of bicarbonate salts.
Conclusion The study underscores the complex interplay between surface topography, microbial
biofilm, and treatment efficacy in peri-implant disease management. While smoother
surfaces may resist biofilm accumulation, increased nanoscale roughness postdecontamination
can enhance fibroblast attachment and soft tissue integration. This dichotomy highlights
the need for tailored treatment protocols that consider material-specific factors,
emphasizing that successful implant therapy should balance microbial control with
conducive surface characteristics for long-term osseointegration and soft tissue stability.
Keywords
bicarbonate air-abrasive powders - implant–abutment junction - peri-implantitis -
titanium surfaces - ultrasonic scaling
