Evaluation of an experimental periodontal ligament for dental implants

Abstract To improve the devices used in dental implantology, a new experimental supporting element has been developed. The device, made of titanium, poly(methylmethacrylate) and Dacron® tissue, has been tested for the osteointegrability of its outer Dacron® coat by implants in mandibular bone of rabbits. The Dacron ® filamentous tissue became incorporated by the bone at 3 month post-implantation. This might provide a reliable mechanical anchorage of the device and a barrier against epithelial proliferation and microbial contamination. Preliminary results relating to in vitro evaluation of the poly(methyl methacrylate)-Dacron® fixation strength predict favourable mechanical behaviour at this interface and in the complete implanted device.