Effect of temperature on the dental implant osseointegration development in low-density bone: an in vivo histological evaluation.

OBJECTIVES: To make an in vivo evaluation of the effects of 2 different bone temperatures, on the development of implant osseointegration, in low-density bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen implant osteotomic sites were prepared in the iliac crests of sheep. Before the implant insertion, 5 sites were heated to 50 degrees C for 1 minute, 5 sites to 60 degrees C for 1 minute, and 5 sites were not overheated. Fifteen titanium dental implants (Cortex, Israel) were inserted. After a healing period of 2 months, the histomorphometric parameters calculated for each implant were the Bone-Implant Contact percentage (%BIC) and the infrabony pocket depth. Unpaired t test was applied to find statistical differences between groups. RESULTS: No implants failed. Statistical significant differences in %BIC and periimplant bone loss were found between the 60 degrees C group and control group. No significant differences were found between the 50 degrees C group and control group, although bone suffering signs were present. CONCLUSION: An osteotomic site overheating up to 60 degrees C for 1 minute in low-density bone, before implant insertion, did not lead to implant failure, but it induced significant crestal bone loss during healing and lower %BIC.