Peri-implantitis cleaning instrumentation influences the integrity of photoactive nanocoatings

- Effects of instrumentation on anatase and titanium surface integrity were evaluated.
- Nanosized anatase surfaces are more prone to abrasive treatments than pure titanium.
- Abrasive surface alterations may not correlate with complete loss of functionality.
- Plastic tipped instruments, air flow device and rubber cup did not harm integrity.
- This study suggests to avoid certain instruments for nanocoated implants.

ObjectiveTo determine in vitro the loss of integrity caused on photocatalytic anatase coated implant surfaces by clinical instrumentation through changes in surface topography and loss of functionality.MethodsAnatase-coated titanium discs were treated with diamond burs, polishers, plastic and metal hand instruments, air scaler and air flow devices. The pressure exerted through instrumentation was measured online. Surface topography was evaluated through scanning electron microscopy and contact profilometry, surface function through hydrophilization capacity upon UV-A activation.ResultsTreatment with diamond burs and instruments with metal tips resulted in an increase of roughness. Use of silicone polishers led to smoothening, which was more pronounced on the anatase surface. Plastic instruments, the air abrasive system and rubber cups left the surfaces intact. Functionality was partially lost on surfaces subjected to hand instruments and completely lost upon diamond burs and silicone polishers.SignificanceThe integrity of functional nanocoatings depends on the applied instrumentation. Air flow device, rubber cup with polishing paste and plastic tipped instruments prevent damage on these nanosurfaces and may be preferably used when decontaminating anatase and other nanocoatings in a clinical setting.