Surface modification of titanium dental implant by hydrofluoric acid and an organic inhibitor etching

Abstract

Titanium dental implants play a decisive role in dentistry for tooth replacement due to their exceptional properties of biocompatibility, osseointegration, and mechanical resistance. This study investigated the modification of dental implant surfaces by chemical etching treatment with hydrofluoric acid (HF). The impact of incorporating an organic inhibitor on weight loss and the resultant topography was assessed. The treated implants showed a significant surface modification characterized by a micro-rough texture, although with considerable weight loss due to material dissolution. Inclusion of an organic inhibitor proved effective in reducing weight loss without significantly altering the surface morphology. Implants treated with HF and the inhibitor showed a morphology comparable to those treated with HF, but with reduced weight loss. Finally, corrosion behavior in a physiological saline solution was investigated to compare the surface modification states.