Abstract
BACKGROUND: The longevity and biocompatibility of dental implants are critically dependent on their surface characteristics and resistance to corrosion. However, contamination with oral fluids, such as saliva, during surgical placement may compromise these properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of salivary contamination on the surface integrity and corrosion resistance of titanium dental implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 40 commercially pure titanium implants were divided into two groups (n = 20 each). Group A (control) received no salivary exposure, while Group B (experimental) was exposed to human whole saliva for 30 min before undergoing thermocycling and immersion in artificial saliva for seven days. Surface topography was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy. Corrosion resistance was measured by potentiodynamic polarization in simulated body fluid. Statistical analysis was conducted using independent t-tests, with significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Group B exhibited a significant increase in surface roughness (Ra: 0.71 ± 0.09 µm) compared to Group A (Ra: 0.52 ± 0.06 µm) (P = 0.002). SEM images revealed micro-pitting and biofilm residues in Group B. Electrochemical analysis showed a lower corrosion potential (-245 ± 15 mV) and higher corrosion current density (1.9 ± 0.3 µA/cm²) in Group B compared to Group A (-175 ± 12 mV, 1.2 ± 0.2 µA/cm²), with statistically significant differences (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Salivary contamination before implant placement significantly impairs surface integrity and reduces corrosion resistance. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining strict aseptic conditions during implant surgery to ensure optimal implant longevity.