Biological properties of hydroxyapatite coatings on titanium dioxide nanotube surfaces using negative pressure method.

Titanium (Ti) exhibits superior biocompatibility and mechanical properties but is bioinert, while hydroxyapatite (HA) possesses excellent osteogenesis and is widely used for the modification of Ti surface coatings. However, the synthesis of homogeneous and stable HA on metallic materials is still a major challenge. In this study, porous titanium dioxide nanotube arrays were prepared on Ti surface by anodic oxidation, loaded with calcium and phosphorus precursors by negative pressure immersion, and HA coating was formed by in situ crystallization of calcium and phosphorus on the surface by hydrothermal heating. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and bonding strength were conducted to confirm the surface characteristics of each group. The cell proliferation, mineralization degree, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of MC3T3-E1 cells on samples were calculated and compared in vitro experiments. Cylindrical samples were implanted into rat femurs to evaluate biocompatibility and osteogenesis in vivo. The results showed that HA crystals successfully synthesized in TiO2 nanotubes, enhancing the bonding strength of HA coating and Ti substrate under negative pressure. Moreover, HA coating on Ti substrate remarkably enhanced cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation activity in vitro, and improved new bone formation as well as osseointegration in vivo.

Effect of airborne-particle abrasion of presintered zirconia on surface roughness and bacterial adhesion.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Factors associated with implant periodontal disease of zirconia restorations such as surface roughness remain largely unknown. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate how airborne-particle abrasion before sintering affects roughness and bacterial adhesion on the surface of zirconia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty presintered zirconia specimens were divided into 6 groups of 5 after being polished with silicon carbide paper (1200 grit). A different surface treatment was applied to each group (no treatment [group Ct] and 120-µm alumina abrasion for 5, 8, 10, 12, and 15 seconds [A5s, A8s, A10s, A12s, and A15s]), and the specimens were then densely sintered. The mean centric linear roughness (Ra) was measured, and the 3D measurement of surface roughness (3D roughness) was determined. The number of colony forming units (CFUs) of Streptococcus mutans adhering to the surface was also examined. One-way ANOVA was used for data analysis (α=.05). RESULTS: Airborne-particle abrasion before sintering significantly increased surface roughness. Group A8s, A10s, A12s, and A15s showed statistically significant higher CFU/mL than did group A5s (P<.05). No difference was found in CFU/mL between group Ct and A5s (P=.230). CONCLUSIONS: Airborne-particle abrasion before sintering is a useful method of increasing the surface roughness of zirconia. Ra < 0.58 µm is necessary to inhibit the adherence of S. mutans to zirconia.

Properties of experimental titanium cast investment mixing with water reducing agent solution.

This study aimed to develop a dental investment for titanium casting. ZrO(2) and Al(2)O(3) were selected as refractory materials to prepare three investments (Codes: A-C) according to the quantity of Zr. Al(2)O(3) cement was used as a binder at a ratio of 15%, they were mixed with special mixing liquid. B1 was used as a control mixed with water. Fundamental examinations were statistically evaluated. A casting test was performed with investment B. Fluidities, setting times, and green strengths showed no remarkable differences; however, they were significantly different from those of B1. Expansion values for A, B, C, and B1 at 850°C were 1.03%±0.08%, 1.96%±0.17%, 4.35%±0.23%, and 1.50%±0.28%, respectively. Castings were covered by only small amounts of mold materials. The hardness test showed no significant differences between castings from B and the ones from commercial investments. The experimental special mixing liquid effectively reduced the water/powder ratio and improved the strength and thermal expansion.

Experimental ammonia-free phosphate-bonded investments using Mg(H2PO4)2 solution.

In our previous study, we investigated ammonia-free phosphate-bonded investments using Mg (H2PO4)2 powder. The purpose of the present study was to attempt usage of 50 wt% Mg (H2PO4)2 solution instead of powder. Magnesium oxide (MgO) was prepared as a binder and cristobalite was selected as a refractory. After arranging six kinds of experimental investments (A-F) with different cristobalite/MgO ratios, the fundamental properties of the dental investments were examined. The properties of the molds were influenced by the amount of MgO. Decreases in MgO showed lower mold strengths, longer setting time and larger setting expansion. According to XRD analysis, the peaks of MgH(PO4)3 x 3H2O newly formed, cristobalite and MgO were detected in the A set, but MgO peaks in F set were reduced. On the other hand, the surface of F was entirely covered by phosphorus. From these results, it was found that the usage of Mg(H2PO4)2 solution was possible for ammonia-free investments.