Ligaplants: The Next Generation Implants

Abstract

The field of implant dentistry has turned out to be an imperative part of mainstream dentistry in the current epoch of dental practice. Osseointegrated implants are the most sought out implants currently. The main shortcomings of these implants is the lack of periodontal ligaments. To overcome this, a tissue engineering concept involving the formation of a periodontal ligament attachment around dental implants has now become a vital and beneficial tool to restore lost teeth. This regenerative approach for periodontal ligament, called the ligaplant is a therapeutic combination of the implant together with newly generated periodontal ligament cells. The periodontal ligament thus formed facilitates micro-movements and shock absorption that is antagonistic to conventional endosseous implants. The ligaplants thus generated have a positive impact on force distribution among the abutment teeth and prosthesis.