A fluoride treated ceramic material is provided, the ceramic material comprising fluorinated metal oxide on its surface. A method for the preparation of such treated ceramics is also provided, the method involving exposure of the ceramic to a fluorine-containing reagent. The ceramic materials can be further functionalized so as to bond to functional ligands and/or resins. The ceramic materials can be, for example, ceramic medical implants or particulate ceramic, which can be incorporated within dental and/or orthopedic composites.