- Same topography, different surface chemistry.
- SLActive is stored wet in saline; SLA is dry.1
- Manufacturer claims vs independent research are labelled below.
What independent research shows
In an independent retrospective study of 511 titanium implants with an SLA surface in 303 patients, 10-year implant survival was 98.8% and success 97.0%. 2
Patients were orally healthy and followed at a university clinic. Results from one centre cannot be transferred to every patient.
A systematic review of laboratory studies found that hydrophilic SLActive surfaces shifted immune cells towards a less inflammatory response than standard SLA surfaces. 3
These were in-vitro studies of low-to-moderate quality. The authors state they do not replicate healing in the human body.
What the manufacturer states
Straumann states that its SLActive® surface demonstrated 100% implant survival, even in patients compromised by smoking, diabetes or radiation therapy. 4
This is how the manufacturer summarises studies it cites. A figure from selected study groups does not mean every implant will survive in every patient. We have not independently reviewed each cited study.
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Request an assessmentLast updated 28 Sep 2026 · How we review
Sources
- Regulatory recordFDA 510(k) K230108 — Straumann BLC and TLC Implants (510(k) summary) — U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2023-09-14. Accessed 28 Sep 2026.
- Independent clinical studyBuser D et al. 10-year survival and success rates of 511 titanium implants with a sandblasted and acid-etched surface — Clin Implant Dent Relat Res, 2012. Accessed 28 Sep 2026.
- Systematic reviewDonohoe E et al. Macrophage inflammatory response to hydrophobic vs hydrophilic SLA titanium: systematic review — Clin Exp Dent Res, 2023. Accessed 28 Sep 2026.
- Manufacturer documentationStraumann iEXCEL™ system (product page) — Institut Straumann AG. Accessed 28 Sep 2026.
Educational information only. The choice of implant system depends on your anatomy, restorative plan, bone quality and the clinician's assessment. This website does not recommend a specific implant for you.
