Integrated Biomechanical and Topographical Surface Characterization (IBTSC).

Journal article, 2014

In an attempt to reduce the need for animal studies in dental implant applications, a new model has been developed which combines well-known surface characterization methods with theoretical biomechanical calculations. The model has been named Integrated Biomechanical and Topographical Surface Characterization (IBTSC), and gives a comprehensive description of the surface topography and the ability of the surface to induce retention strength with bone. IBTSC comprises determination of 3D-surface roughness parameters by using 3D-Scanning Electron Microscopy (3D-SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and calculation of the ability of different surface topographies to induce retention strength in bone by using the Local model. Inherent in this integrated approach is the use of a length scale analysis, which makes it possible to separate different size levels of surface features. The IBTSC concept is tested on surfaces with different level of hierarchy, induced by mechanical as well as chemical treatment. Sequential treatment with oxalic and hydrofluoric acid results in precipitated nano-sized features that increase the surface roughness and the surface slope on the sub-micro and nano levels. This surface shows the highest calculated shear strength using the Local model. The validity, robustness and applicability of the IBTSC concept are demonstrated and discussed.