Influence of Root Surface Design on Implant Acceptability in Baboons

摘要

The effect of root surface design on dental implant acceptability in baboons was studied using three basic configurations (smooth, grooved, and perforated) on polymer replica implants fabricated with standard or porous polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The implants were tested in anterior and posterior sites. Surface grooves and root perforations were found to improve PMMA replica implant retention but not firmness. The addition of anorganic bone and foaming agents to standard PMMA did not enhance replica implant acceptability. Polymer replica implants were found to be more retentive and firm in posterior sites than in anterior sites. PMMA replicas were generally found not self-supporting in anterior sites. Anterior sites appear to be inhospitable to dental implants in baboons. Since anterior sites in baboons are quite vulnerable to trauma, studies involving them must incorporate special animal handling.