Exploring Xenobiotic Sensing in Implant Dentistry: A Literature Review

Abstract

Implant-supported rehabilitation is a well-supported evidence-based therapeutic strategy for replacing missing teeth in partially or completely edentulous patients, with predictable long-term success rates.⁽¹⁾ Dental implants are biomaterials used to regain lost chewing function and aesthetic in various edentulous cases. Dental implant materials are required to be non-allergic, sterilizable, biocompatible, and resistant to corrosion and occlusal loads⁽²⁾. Different materials have been used in the fabrication of dental implants; however, commercially pure titanium (Ti) is still the material of choice in implant dentistry.⁽³⁾ Titanium is a transition metal with a silver colour, known for high strength and resistance to corrosion. Its outstanding capacity to incorporate into bone is a phenomenon termed “osseointegration”.⁽⁴⁾ Titanium has been considered a biological modulator of oral health. The ions and metal particles released may alter the interior physiological oral environment and initiate peri-implantitis or trigger a peri-implantitis flare⁽⁵⁾. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised regarding titanium’s potential to induce hypersensitivity or inflammatory reactions in the host tissues which could lead to various complications in certain cases. It was reported that titanium ions may lead to systemic side effects such as hypersensitivity or allergy, and may disseminate to lymph nodes, liver and spleen in individuals with hip and knee prosthesis ^(6,7). The purpose of this review was to compile the current evidence regarding the association between the release of titanium particles from dental implants and its biologic complications