Oral Tissue Interactions and Cellular Response to Zirconia Implant-Prosthetic Components: A Critical Review

Background: Dental components manufactured with zirconia (ZrO2) represent a significant percentage of the implant prosthetic market in dentistry. However, during the last few years, we have observed robust clinical and pre-clinical scientific investigations on zirconia both as a prosthetic and an implantable material. At the same time, we have witnessed consistent technical and manufacturing updates with regards to the applications of zirconia which appear to gradually clarify points which until recently were not well understood. Methods: This critical review evaluated the “state of the art” in relation to applications of this biomaterial in dental components and its interactions with oral tissues. Results: The physico-chemical and structural properties as well as the current surface treatment methodologies for ZrO2 were explored. A critical investigation of the cellular response to this biomaterial was completed and the clinical implications discussed. Finally, surface treatments of ZrO2 demonstrate that excellent osseointegration is possible and provide encouraging prospects for rapid bone adhesion. Furthermore, sophisticated surface treatment techniques and technologies are providing impressive oral soft tissue cell responses thus leading to superior biological seal. Conclusions: Dental devices manufactured from ZrO2 are structurally and chemically stable with biocompatibility levels allowing for safe and long-term function in the oral environment.