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Anodized Titanium Implant Abutments: Effects on Surface Properties, Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Esthetics, and Biological Outcomes-A Focused Narrative Review

Laks EY, Al-Faraj A, Yang CC, Kirkup ML, Levon JA, Lin WS

Dentistry journal, 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: To summarize evidence on whether anodization of titanium implant abutments modifies abutment surface/physical properties, peri-implant soft tissue esthetics, and biological outcomes compared with machined titanium and alternative abutment materials. Methods: This focused narrative review used a structured, reproducible literature search with dual-reviewer screening and data extraction. The study selection pathway was summarized using a PRISMA-style flow diagram for transparency. Searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar were performed, supplemented by gray literature screening and manual searching. Laboratory, animal, and human clinical studies evaluating anodized titanium abutments were eligible. Data were synthesized qualitatively across prespecified domains (surface or physical properties, esthetic outcomes, and biological outcomes). Because the work was designed as a narrative review, protocol registration and formal risk of bias appraisal were not undertaken. Results: Thirty-five studies were included (twenty-five in vitro, three animal, and seven human clinical). Anodization modified oxide layer characteristics and surface chemistry, and was commonly associated with increased hydrophilicity. Esthetically, pink or yellow anodized titanium generally reduced discoloration compared with uncolored titanium, particularly when soft tissue and restorative material thickness were sufficient, whereas zirconia most consistently…

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