Bioceramic Applications: The Case of Dentistry and Orthopedics

Abstract

The use of ceramic materials in the field of biomaterials is rapidly expanding. Biomaterials are a preferred market for ceramics due to their chemical inertia and high hardness, compared to traditional metals. (Inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges, periodontal rings, brackets, implants, etc.). The main applications are orthopedic surgery (artificial joints, bioactive layers for better osseointegration) Seals for pacemakers, defibrillators, neurological stimulators, cochlear implants, etc.). In several cases, ceramic materials replace metallic alloys whose use induce, if poorly controlled, serious environmental problems (Cobalt /Chrome alloy, amalgam lead/Mercury/tin for the dental care, etc.). The metals making up these alloys lead to very serious environmental stresses due to their high toxicity [1-5].