Corrosion aspect of dental implants—An overview and literature review

The use of metals and their alloys in restorative and implant dentistry dates back to centuries. Titanium (Ti) is one of the most widely used biomaterial for medical implants because of its excellent mechanical properties and exceptional biocompatibility. The good biocompatibility of Ti is related to the thin oxide layer formed on Ti surface. TiO2 is inactive with the surrounding biological environment and quite compatible with living tissues. However, TiO2 layer can be destroyed during movements between implant and bone tissue under loading condition. The localized destruction causes corrosion of the implant, thus, weakening it; and can induce the leak of small metallic particles or ions into living tissues. This article highlights a review of the various aspects of corrosion and biocompatibility of dental titanium implants as well as suprastructures, and the methods to prevent it.