Use of electrical field for biofilm implant removal

OBJECTIVE: New methods for biofilm removal are being investigated. A recent new one involves the use of the electric field for biofilm removal. In particular, electrolytic cleaning works on the adhesion forces of the biofilm on the surfaces, with few studies showing promising results in decontamination and implant re-integration in the bone. This study aims at assessing the effect of a new decontamination device that implies the electric field for implant-biofilm removal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three implants affected by peri-implantitis were selected for the study. After the treatment, the implants were observed by the Scanning Electron Microscopy. RESULTS: All three samples showed no microbial biofilm in the application area, while the rest of the surface observed was covered with microbial biofilm, with an intensely thickened bacterial population. CONCLUSIONS: Peri-mucositis and peri-implantitis prevention and early treatments are essential for implant maintenance, thus saving the surrounding hard and soft tissues. The technological innovation is providing electrolytic devices which act not only on the microbial population but on the biofilm adhesion to the implant surface, with promising results for a new and valid therapeutic option.