Recent research has explored the potential impact that titanium microparticles could have on the effectiveness of dental implants. Titanium is the main material in the majority of dental implants, but there have been concerns over what impact microparticles could have on the surrounding tissue. This is an important topic, given the popularity of dental implants.

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New research has found that titanium microparticles are commonly found in oral tissues around dental implants. The research team has explored the impact that these microparticles could have on dental implants [1].

Dental implants are a very popular dental treatment. But there has been concern over the impact that certain materials can have on them.

This is an interesting topic. With implants being very popular, any research into their effectiveness is important and can help many patients.

Background

This research involved looking at titanium, which is a well-studied material. Titanium is often used as the main material for dental implants.

Dental implants are artificial teeth that act and look like a real tooth. They take the form of a post – normally made of titanium – that is inserted into the jawbone.

Implants are mainly used when a patient has lost a tooth, or teeth. For example, this can happen through extensive tooth decay, advanced gum disease, or trauma.

The dental implant market has been growing rapidly in recent years. Research suggests that by 2026, as many as 23% of American adults could have at least one dental implant [2].

Titanium is strong, compatible with the mouth and other teeth, and long-lasting. Therefore, it is a highly effective material for implants.

But in some cases, implants can fail. Dentists and scientists have been trying to find potential causes of failure, so that treatment outcomes can improve.

The Research

The research was carried out by a team of researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Uppsala University in Sweden. Their findings have been published in the Communications Medicine journal [1].

The researchers noted that they wished to find out more about the impact that titanium microparticles can have on dental implants [1].

While titanium is effective, concerns regarding the effect of microparticles exist. For example, past research has suggested that titanium particles can be found in inflamed tissues around dental implants [3].

Therefore, the researchers wanted to see if a direct link existed between these areas. To do this, the researchers analyzed tissue samples from 21 patients with multiple adjacent implants [1].

These samples were taken from both healthy tissues around implants, and unhealthy tissues – such as those affected by the inflammatory condition peri-implantitis [1]. Peri-implantitis can result in the destruction of the supporting bones around an implant. This can result in loss of the implant.

The researchers then conducted an analysis using an advanced method called µ-PIXE [1]. This method enabled the team to map the distribution of titanium particles in the tissue samples.

The results showed that tissue samples with higher concentrations of titanium particles altered several genes. These were genes related to inflammation and wound healing [1].

Therefore, it appears that titanium particles do impact how an area becomes inflamed and affect how wounds heal [1]. This is a bit concerning, as these are critical functions.

However, the researchers don’t know if the altered genes make the inflammation worse. They identified 14 genes that are impacted by the titanium particles [1].

Therefore, the researchers were unable to make any concrete conclusions on the effects titanium microparticles have. While they definitely have an impact, we don’t know if it is a positive or negative impact.

Summary

This research was very interesting. While knowledge of titanium particles has risen, the findings from the research were unable to result in definitive conclusions being drawn.

For now, the researchers concluded that there is no reason for concern [1]. However, they admit that more knowledge on the subject area is needed, as there is a potential that there is a link between titanium microparticles and worsening inflammation.

Moreover, the researchers have questioned if these microparticles could spread elsewhere in the body. This is another area they wish to explore, as this could impact various health conditions [1].

In terms of where the particles come from, the researchers suspect that the particles are released during the surgical installation of the implant [1].

So while definitive conclusions haven’t been made following this research, knowledge of the subject has certainly improved, and should pave the way for further research in the future.

The aim is for treatment outcomes to always be strong. Hopefully, future research into the area will contribute to improvements in this popular treatment.

Thinking points…

[1] Where possible, we should always aim to prevent dental problems. After all, we don’t want to be in a position where we lose teeth. Aside from practicing excellent oral hygiene, another important thing to do is to attend regular dental check-ups. At a check-up, a dentist will be able to take a thorough look at your mouth and gums, provide advice, and suggest treatment if required. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

[2] If you are in a position where you have a missing tooth, then dental implants can be an excellent solution! As discussed above, while more research will be helpful, implants have a proven track record for effectiveness. They look natural, are long-lasting, and can boost self-esteem. Here at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental, we offer a free dental implant consultation for our patients, offering you a chance to find out more about the treatment! For further details and to book an appointment, please see our website – https://taradaledental.ca/!

What we offer at Taradale Dental

Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.

Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.

We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!

References

[1] Dionigi, C., Nagy, G., Derks, J., et al. (2025). Titanium micro-particles are commonly found in soft tissues surrounding dental implants. Communications Medicine. 5 (78). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s43856-025-00756-3.

[2] Elani, H. W., Silva, JD. D., & Gallucci, G. (2018). Trends in Dental Implant Use in the U.S., 1999–2016, and Projections to 2026. Journal of Dental Research. 97 (13): p1424-1430. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0022034518792567.

[3] Chen, L., Tong, Z., Luo, H., et al. (2023). Titanium particles in peri-implantitis: distribution, pathogenesis and prospects. International Journal of Oral Science. 15 (49). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41368-023-00256-x.