Experimental bacteremia to demonstrate the barrier function of epithelium and connective tissue surrounding oral endosseous implants

Abstract The barrier function of the peri-pillary epithelial-connective tissue cuff was experimentally tested with 12 endosseous metal blade vents in four beagles. An identified Staphylococcus aureus test strain was suspended in 0.5 ml saline. This bacterial suspension was then instilled into the sulcus of each implant. For stimulation of bacteremia the animals were fed with pelleted dry food. After 5 minutes, venous blood was drawn and incubated. After 72 hours of incubation none of the cultures showed bacterial growth of the test bacteria. In a second experiment 0.5 ml of the bacterial suspension was inoculated intravenously. After 1 h a bacteriological smear and peri-pillary tissue were taken. The specified Staphylococcus aureus was identified with phage typing in only one tissue specimen. This study demonstrates that the pseudo-attachment of the epithelial-connective tissue complex to the post of metal endosteal implants is functionable. Functionability, however, is endangered if biomechanical imbalance or infection occurs.