Osseointegration
Pronunciation: os-ee-oh-in-teh-GRAY-shun
The direct structural and functional connection between living bone and the surface of a load-bearing implant without intervening connective tissue.
Full Definition
Osseointegration, a concept pioneered by Per-Ingvar Brånemark, describes the biological process by which bone cells grow in direct apposition to a titanium or zirconia implant surface, providing a stable foundation for prosthetic restorations. In editorial contexts, the term is always spelled as one word—not 'osseo-integration'—and should not be confused with 'fibro-osseous integration', which indicates a less desirable connective tissue interface. The degree and quality of osseointegration are evaluated through radiographic and clinical criteria. The term applies to both dental and orthopaedic implant literature.
Usage
Usage note: Always one word, no hyphen. Do not confuse with 'ankylosis', which is fusion of the tooth root to bone without prosthetic intent.
In Context
- "Successful osseointegration was confirmed after a healing period of four months." — Implant placement report
- "Peri-implantitis compromised the osseointegration of the posterior implant." — Complication management case note