Applications of Nanotechnology in Dentistry SECTION A: Role of Nanotechnology in Dental implants

Osseointegration of a dental implant is a primary measure of its long term success. Direct bone-toimplant contact is desired for a biomechanical anchoring of implants to bone rather than fibrous tissue encapsulation. Surface characteristics of implants such as surface treatment and thread designs play a determinant role in these biological interactions. Nanotechnologies are increasingly used for surface modifications of dental implants. Another approach to enhance osseointegration is the application of thin calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings. Bioactive CaP nanocrystals deposited on titanium implants are resorbable and stimulate bone apposition and healing. Future nanometercontrolled surfaces may ultimately direct the nature of peri-implant tissues and improve their clinical success rate. This paper reviews the different steps of the interactions between biological tissues and surfaces of implants using nanotechnology.