Abstract Scope |
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has emerged as a promising alternative to metallic dental implants due to its excellent biocompatibility, radiolucency, and mechanical tunability. However, its inherent bioinertness limits osseointegration. In this study, we developed a novel 3D-printed composite dental implant by incorporating amorphous magnesium phosphate (AMP) into the PEEK matrix using Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF). AMP was selected for its known osteoconductive properties and potential to enhance bone-implant interactions. The composite filaments were optimized for FFF, and implants were fabricated under controlled thermal and processing conditions. Mechanical characterization confirmed that the AMP-PEEK composites maintained clinically relevant strength, while microstructural analysis revealed homogeneous AMP dispersion. In vitro studies demonstrated improved surface bioactivity and enhanced osteoblast adhesion and proliferation on the AMP-PEEK surface compared to neat PEEK. These findings underscore the potential of AMP-PEEK composites as a next-generation, bioactive, and mechanically robust platform for customizable, endosseous dental implants fabricated via 3D printing. |