Factors influencing osseointegration/peri-implant bone

Aim of the study

To determine the possible factors which could influence the amount of osseointegration.

Materials and methods

The mandibular premolars of 5 dogs were extracted and defects of 5 mm by 5 mm were created on the buccal aspects. 27 Steri-oss implants were placed and the defects filled with; an inductive material in a bioresorbable supporting medium, the supporting medium alone, or left unfilled (controls). Histological assessments were undertaken at 3 months at 3 buccal and lingual sites; at the surface of the implant (for osseointegration), between the threads, and 2 mm from the implant.

Results

In all cases the bone density decreased from the outer (2 mm) area towards the surface of the implant. The numbers of animals in each sample were insufficient to explain the differences between the animals. On the other hand, the position of the tooth made no difference and there was little difference between buccal and lingual sites.

Commentaries

This study shows that histological osseointegration is always poorer than clinical osseointegration, as evidenced by bone density adjacent to the implant. On the other hand, this study differs from others by showing no difference in osseointegration according to the position of the tooth. A study with too few subjects ? Small scale, of little interest !