Esthetic and physical changes of innovative titanium surface properties obtained with laser technology

Aim: The purpose of the study was the evaluation of the esthetic and physical changes produced on colored titanium Grade 5 (Ti6Al4V) laser treated surfaces to be used in implant dentistry for esthetic success. Materials and methods: Colored titanium surfaces were obtained with laser treatment. The physical and topographic properties were evaluated by stereo, light, and electron microscopy and profilometric analyses. L*a*b* colorimetric coordinates were measured by spectrometry, and the superficial chemical characteristics were evaluated by energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Results: Within the complete palette of titanium colors, pinks (P1-P2), incarnadine (I), and white (W) obtained by laser were selected. The topography, texture, hues, saturation, roughness, and porosity of the samples were compared with those of machined (M) and sand-blasted and etched (SBAE) control surfaces. P1, P2, and I, similar in hue and roughness (Ra ≅ 0.5 μm), had a microgroove spacing of 56 μm and a decreasing porosity. The W sample with a "checkerboard" texture and a light color (L* 96.31) was similar to the M samples (Ra = 0.32 μm), but different from SBAE (Ra = 1.41 μm, L* 65.47). Discussion: The aspects of hard and soft tissue could result in an esthetic failure of the dental implant by showing the dark color of the fixture or abutment. The two different pinks and incarnadine surfaces showed favorable esthetic and physical features to promote dental implant success even in the maxillary anterior area with gingival recession, asymmetry, and deficiency. Conclusion: Titanium colored laser surfaces represent a valid alternative to those currently traditionally obtained and interesting and potential perspectives in the management of dental implants' esthetic failure.