Silver as an antimicrobial coating on titanium implants

Abstract

Silver and its compounds have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties and for more than a century in dentistry. Biofilm formation and microbial colonization on the surface of implant devices may cause peri-implantitis, resistance to aggressive pharmacological agents as well as host defenses. Therefore, different surface treatments to improve the antibacterial activity of titanium implants have been created. Silver can be used to reduce bacterial adhesion to implant surfaces. The objective of this review is to depict the evidence supporting the medicinal use of silver in implant dentistry and their findings in clinical research.