Nd-YAG laser texturing of zirconia implant surfaces

Abstract

Purpose: This study sought to assess the behavior of soft and hard tissue cells on Nd:YAG laser-textured zirconia implant surfaces with parameters that simulate roughness and topography of sandblasting and acid-etching. Methods: Zirconia discs were prepared and treated with sandblasting and acid-etching, laser 10 μm spacing 10% power (D10P10) or laser 20 μm spacing 1% power (D20P1). Roughness and wettability were measured. Human osteoblasts and fibroblasts were cultivated on the zirconia disks, and their viability was evaluated. IL-1β and IL-6 production was evaluated by ELISA. Morphology and adhesion were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy and Field Emission Gun Scanning Electron Microscopy (FEG-SEM). Groups were compared using one-way ANOVA (fibroblasts viability, mechanical tests, interleukins) or Kruskal-Wallis (osteoblasts viability) tests, as appropriate. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in the viability of osteoblasts over time. Fibroblasts showed a higher viability for laser 10 μm spacing 10% power then for sandblasting and acid-etching at 1 and 7 days of culture. There were no statistically significant differences in inflammatory interleukin production. Microscopy images revealed early cell adhesion, normal morphology, and more fibroblasts in laser groups. Conclusion: Laser texturing seems to allow the production of sandblasting and acid-etching-like surfaces, with a similar behavior for osteoblasts and an improved behavior for fibroblasts.