Experimental and clinical studies of Astra Tech's OsseoSpeed Dental Implant have revealed its unique properties, when supported by Astra Tech's MicroThread implant design, for the preservation of marginal bone. The combination of Fixture MicroThread and Astra Tech's TiOblast surface already provide a secure and reliable support in implant therapy. Observations in early studies indicated that enhanced rates of bone formation and increased ratios of bone-to-implant contact were due to the Astra Tech OsseoSpeed fixture surface, which features a fluoride modification of the titanium dioxide layer. Test and control implants to evaluate the influence of this surface on bone healing were placed in animals, and biopsies taken at two and six weeks following the implant installation. Results indicated that two weeks after installation the defects were partially filled at both test and control sites with immature bone. At six weeks they showed substantial bone formation in marginal defect sites, while significantly more bone had formed in contact with the OsseoSpeed implant surface than at the control surface. This finding indicates that healing around implants with the OsseoSpeed surface in compromised sites is different from that around non-modified implants, and that the OsseoSpeed implant surface promotes the formation of new bone more rapidly. For further information call Astra Tech on 01453 791763.

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