The Effects of Ultrasonic Scaling and Air-Abrasive Powders on the Topography of Implant Surfaces: Scanning Electron Analysis and In Vitro Study

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.

Fig. 1

Representative images of UTM surface morphology. First row shows SEM microphotographs illustrating morphological alterations resulting from decontamination treatment. Second row shows roughness changes following decontamination treatment. Third row shows cell growth on sterile and decontaminated samples. SEM, scanning electron microscopy.

Fig. 2

Representative images of XA surface morphology. First row shows SEM microphotographs illustrating morphological alterations resulting from decontamination treatment. Second row shows roughness changes following decontamination treatment. Third row shows cell growth on sterile and decontaminated samples. SEM, scanning electron microscopy.

Fig. 3

Representative images of RS surface morphology. First row shows SEM microphotographs illustrating morphological alterations resulting from decontamination treatment. Second row shows roughness changes following decontamination treatment. Third row shows cell growth on sterile and decontaminated samples. SEM, scanning electron microscopy.