Channel-embedded porous zirconia surfaces to mimic dentine-cementum functionality in dental Implants: Design, production and characterisation

This study introduces a novel concept of dental implant integration, fibrointegration, which aims to replicate the natural attachment mechanism of teeth. To achieve this, zirconia samples featuring internal channels and one to three external porous layers were developed using Computer-Aided Design/Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and dip-coating techniques, with the aim of mimicking the functional properties of natural teeth and thereby promoting the fibrointegration of a zirconia root-analogue implant. Results showed that the channel-embedded porous surfaces exhibited enhanced porosity, increased surface roughness, and superhydrophilic behaviour. Furthermore, the presence of microchannels induced a strong capillary effect, facilitating immediate fluid rise and spreading. The coating thickness increased with the number of dips, with the double-layer porous coating achieving an optimal thickness (≈100 μm), resembling natural cementum and exhibiting superior scratch resistance. These findings highlight the potential of bioinspired, channel-embedded porous zirconia surfaces to promote cell adhesion, guide growth, and stimulate fibrointegration, thereby improving implant stability.