Relation between surface conditioning of the zirconia dental implant and its risk of fracture. A sistematic review.

Abstract

Background: Zirconia is an appropriate alternative to substitute titanium dental implants for its aesthetics features, low biofilm affinity, high corrosion resistance, high biocompatibility and its favorable mechanical and physicochemical properties. Chemical and molecular composition of zirconia dental implants can be altered by its surface conditioning techniques, jeopardizing its stability and causing implant fracture. Aim: To describe the relationship between the different types of zirconia implant surface conditioning and its risk of fracture. Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted, it included articles from PUBMED, Science Direct and Google Scholar, using the combination of these key words “zirconia surface treatment AND implant”, published between 2014-2024. Results: 15 articles were included, according to the inclusion criteria (8 systematic reviews and 7 in-vitro studies), these articles analyzed the relationship between the zirconia implant surface conditioning techniques (sandblasting, acid etch, UV light, laser, mechanical treatment and ceramic, bioactive and mineral coatings) with its structural characteristics, chemical and biomechanical properties and its stability. Conclusions: Techniques used for surface conditioning of zirconia implants affect its risk of fracture. Surface conditioning with laser and sandblasting with acid etching, increase its fracture resistance and improve its biomechanical properties. Sandblasting with big and irregular particles and mechanical surface treatment, produce cracks and fissures, engaging its stability and increasing its fracture rate.