Osseointegration: on continuing synergies in surgery, prosthodontics and biomaterials

  • G. Zarb,
  • T. Albrektsson,
  • G. Baker,
  • S. Eckert,
  • C. Stanford,
  • D. Tarnow &
  • A. Wennerberg
UK: Quintessence price £112.00; pp 200 ISBN 9780867154795 | ISBN: 978-0-8671-5479-5

This is an important publication by a group of authors with an international reputation and expertise in the fields of oral implantology and science of osseointegration. Clinical experience and incorporated knowledge over a period of more than 25 years is presented in this book in a clear and friendly manner.

The first two chapters briefly introduce the evolution and clinical applications of osseointegration in dental and orofacial rehabilitation. Reference to success outcome criteria and controlling parameters are revisited. The implications of systemic disease and smoking on clinical outcome are present in a short and comprehensive way in chapter three. The core principles of osseointegration, broken down to its own constituents, ie the host response and the implant screw material properties, are comprehensively presented in the next two chapters.

While chapter six introduces the radiographic assessment modalities, chapter seven covers in an excellently written fashion the surgical protocols both for implant surgery and jaw reconstruction in compromised cases. Reference to autogenous and substitute materials and osteo-attractive agents is given in accordance with other surgical approaches covering the whole spectrum from a surgeon's perspective.

Soft tissue aesthetic considerations and prosthodontic protocols are provided in detail in the next two chapters with special reference to oral function. A particularly useful chapter provides the latest consensus and clinical guidelines on the 'hot topic' of early and immediate loading/restoration of dental implants. Reasons for failure and standard of care are reviewed in the next two chapters taking into account economic principles. The authors conclude with future directions and suggestions for improving education standards. Overall, the actual text itself is simple and well supported by pertinent literature.

In summary, this is an excellent book that can be recommended for the majority of dental professionals both trainees and peers. The authors present updated scientific clinical knowledge on osseointegration and treatment planning protocols as a 'coherent package'. This book deserves a place on everyone's shelf.