OBJECTIVE

To investigate changes in the morphological structure and elemental composition of dental implants with three types of surface (TiO₂, SLA, RBM) after treatment with various methods — Er, Cr: YSGG laser with a wavelength of 2780 nm, Air Flow with erythritol and Vector Paro ultrasound device.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 36 dental implants were included: 9 new implants (3 of each surface type) were used as the control group, and 27 implants, explanted from patients with peri-implantitis, were evenly divided into three subgroups according to the cleaning method used. Surface morphology was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and elemental composition was analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).

RESULTS

Laser treatment demonstrated versatility and cleaning efficiency without damaging the microrelief for all types of surfaces. The Air Flow air-abrasive method was most effective for the RBM surface, but showed residual surface contamination when treated with TiO₂ and SLA. The ultrasonic method using the Vector Paro device was especially effective for the TiO₂ surface, probably due to its hydrophilic properties.

CONCLUSION

The choice of decontamination method for the treatment of peri-implantitis should take into account the surface type and characteristics of the dental implant. The Er, Cr:YSGG laser proved to be a universal and effective method, while Air Flow and Vector Paro were more efficient when used for specific surface types.