Objective
This study evaluated the effect of cyclic pre-calcification treatment on the improvement of bioactivity and osseointegration of Ti-6Al-4V mini-screws.
Methods
The experimental groups were an untreated group (UT), an anodized and heat-treated group (AH), and an anodized treatment followed by cyclic pre-calcification treatment group (ASPH). A bioactive material with calcium phosphate was coated on the mini-screws, and its effects on bioactivity and osseointegration were evaluated in
in vitro
and
in vivo
tests of following implantation in the rat tibia.
Results
As a result of immersing the ASPH group in simulated body fluid for 2 days, protrusions appearing in the initial stage of hydroxyapatite precipitation were observed. On the 3rd day, the protrusions became denser, other protrusions overlapped and grew on it, and the calcium and phosphorus concentrations increased. The removal torque values increased significantly in the following order UT group (2.08 ± 0.67 N·cm), AH group (4.10 ± 0.72 N·cm), and ASPH group (6.58 ± 0.66 N·cm) with the ASPH group showing the highest value (
p
< 0.05). In the ASPH group, new bone was observed that was connected to the threads, and it was confirmed that a bony bridge connected to the adjacent bone was formed.
Conclusions
In conclusion, it was found that the surface treatment method used in the ASPH group improved the bioactivity and osseointegration of Ti-6Al-4V orthodontic mini-screws.