Experimental titanium alloys for dental applications

Statement of problem Although the use of titanium has increased, casting difficulties limit routine use. Purpose The purpose of the present study was to compare the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the experimental titanium alloys titanium–5-zirconium, titanium–5-tantalum, and titanium–5-tantalum–5-zirconium (in wt%) with those of commercially pure titanium. Material and methods Specimens of titanium alloys and commercially pure titanium were cast by using plasma. Their modulus of elasticity and ultimate tensile strength were determined in a universal testing machine. Biocompatibility was evaluated with SCC9 cells. In periods of 1, 4, 7, 10, and 14 days, cell proliferation was evaluated by the (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) tetrazolium reduction assay, and cell viability was evaluated in the 7-day period. Cell morphology was evaluated at 2, 12, and 24 hours. Modulus of elasticity, ultimate tensile strength, and cell viability were analyzed by 1-way ANOVA and the Bonferroni test; cell proliferation data were compared by 2-way ANOVA (alloy versus time) and by the Bonferroni test; and the cell morphology data were analyzed by split-plot design. All statistical tests were performed at the 95% confidence level ( P