Histologic evaluation of vitreous carbon endosteal implants in occlusion in dogs.

A 6-7 month histologic study of vitreous carbon endosteal implants in occlusion was conducted in dogs to determine whether the shape of the implant has adverse effects on supporting tissues. Conical vitreous carbon implants were placed in fresh, second, and third premolar extraction sites, and the sites were allowed to heal for periods of 2 to 8 weeks prior to restoration with cast gold crowns. Gingival tissues healed routinely and showed inflammatory conditions similar to tissues adjacent to teeth, and normal sulculur depths were measured. Bone formation was observed within grooves in the implant surface, providing retention and stabilization, normal bone remodeling appeared to be occurring adjacent to the implant sites. No inflammatory responses, foreign body reactions, or infections were observed. Vitreous carbon appears well suited for application as an endosteal implant material.