Immunohistochemical characteristics of the implant-hosted bone: preliminary findings of 9 mandibular cores.

OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to investigate the biochemical topography of collagen types I and III and to describe the histological structure at the implant placement site to determine the clinical significance of the findings and their possible interaction with bone healing around dental implants. MATERIAL AND METHODS Bone cores from 9 mandibles were taken from the site of placement of dental implants. The reliable technique for rapid preparation of fresh-frozen undecalcified bone sections and the indirect immunofluorescent technique as an immunohistochemical procedure were applied. All sections were viewed under U.V light. For comparative purposes the tissue blocks remaining were used for general histology examination. RESULTS A homogenous distribution of collagen type I throughout the sections of all cores was evident. Whereas, the distribution of collagen type III throughout the sections of all cores was heterogeneous with different staining patterns. On the other hand, seven cores of the general histology study showed a structure of lamellar mature bone and two cores showed a structure of less mature woven bone. CONCLUSION The biochemical and histological structures of the hosted bone may have an impact on the speed of bone healing around dental implants.