THE CHOICE OF ALLOPLASTIC MATERIALS FOR ORAL IMPLANTS - DOES IT REALLY MATTER

Purpose: To provide a review of the overall nature and properties of m aterials used for manufacturing of endosseous dental implants. Results and Discussion: The importance of chemical qualities of implant surfa ces is highlighted; special reference is given to titanium and its oxi des. The process of bioadhesion is described, and comments are made on its relation to a range of given biomechanical factors. Conclusion: I n the author's opinion, based on the arguments presented, the material properties of alloplastic implant materials have a strong influence o n implant retention and stability, and thus on an implant's capacity t o achieve so-called osseointegration.