Osseointegration: A Comprehensive Overview

Dr. Branemark developed the first concept of Osseo integration. Osseointegration is defined as, “direct structural and functional connection between the living bone and the surface of a load bearing artificial implant, typically made of Titanium.” The process of Osseo integration needs the formation of new bone around the implant fixture and the process of healing of implant is somewhat same as the healing of a primary bone. The formation of bone on the surface of Titanium needs a film of oxide simultaneously with the aggregation of protein and calcium phosphate. Nevertheless, Osseointegration is the indirect bonding that is formed by an amorphous layer that includes Osteoclastin and Osteopontin that are being used as scaffolds by Osteoblasts, not any direct bond between the titanium surface and the bone. Several clinical studies show the ratio between the bone and implant contact is (40 to 60) % where the Osseo integration was successful. Many researches and studies are being performed to discover the best modification of surface of implants so as to increase the score of the implant and bone contact. Most newly the treatment of surfaces such as acid etch, glow discharge or ultra violet irradiation have been shown to be effective for the Osseointegration process. Many more changes and researches are needed to find the best method of Osseointegration and in maintaining it.