A histopathological report on the nature of the epithelium and underlying connective tissue which surrounds oral implants.

Abstract

AbstractThis report is concerned with the two tissue types (oral epithelium and fibrous connective tissue) which surround oral implants and the possible adhesion of cells of these tissues to the implant surface. A review of the literature reveals that there is disagreement as to which of these two tissue types encase the deeper portions of Vitallium implants. Using techniques developed for studying the dental epithelial attachment, the following observations are submitted. A PAS‐possitive material is in abundance at the interface between the junctional epithelium and the implant post and present, but to a lesser degree, between the fibrous connective tissue and the implant surface. An Oracine‐positive material is present at the interface of both tissue types and the implant surfaces. Collagen fibers subjacent to the junctional epithelium are oriented at functional angles to the basement membrane. A histological artifact has been frequently observed which is the result of the tearing of the end of the epithelium away from its basement membrane. Bacterial plaque adhering to the exposed portion of the implant posts extends in an apical direction and terminates abruptly along a very distinct line. From these observations it seems likely that an adhesion exists at the interface between the junctional epithelial cells and the penetrating implant surface.