Addition of Ca2+ to Titanium Plates by a Hydrothermal Method and the Effects on Human Gingival Fibroblasts

Abstract

Background: Human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) have key roles in the formation of soft-tissue attachments around dental implants. We added calcium ions (Ca2+) to the surface of titanium plates (TPs) to make it more conducive to the early adhesion and proliferation of hGFs. Methods: Ca2+ was loaded onto the TP surface by a hydrothermal method. The morphology and composition of TP surfaces were determined by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Proliferation of hGF-1 cells was measured by the CCK-8 assay. Immunofluorescence staining was done to detect adherent proteins on the TP surface. TPs were divided randomly into two groups: control and Ca.Results: In the Ca group, irregular lamellar crystals were found on the surface of TPs; The percentage of hGF-1 cells adhering to TPs in the Ca group was significantly higher than that in control group (P < 0.01); The fluorescence of integrin-β1 and F-actin in the Ca group was stronger than that in the control group. Conclusions: Our data suggest that Ca2+ can be added to TP surfaces by a hydrothermal method, and can enhance hGF adhesion. This property may be beneficial if Ca2+ is added to titanium surfaces before dental implantation.