Objective: The aim of this study was to observe the in vivo cellular reaction and calcium deposition around dental implants after applying three histological techniques.
Methods: Six adult New Zealand rabbits, with an average weight of 3.5 kg, were included. Twenty-four cylindrical implants with an internal hex were used in the experiment. The implants were sandblasted with titanium micro- particles and then were conditioned with maleic acid. Calcein was injected subcutaneously at two different time points to assess calcium deposition on the bone - at the first and second weeks in examination group 1 (exam1); and at fourth and fifth weeks in examination group 2 (exam2) - with three animals in each group. Each implant was cut into 3 slices, and each slice was used for a different histological technique: one for light microscopy, one for fluorescence, and one for scanning. The samples were analysed and compared with the reactions at the interface of the bone and implant after 3 and 6 weeks.
Results: The results demonstrated different reactions in bone tissue being observed at the time corresponding to the exam1 group, mainly intense cellular proliferation and bone matrix production. The exam2 group demonstrated organisation and the maturation of the newly form tissue. The clinical significance is that, under appropriate conditions, restorative procedures may begin after 6 weeks.
Conclusion: The implants showed large corticalised areas, and they featured lamellar bone after 6 weeks. Calcium deposition occurred with greater intensity between the 3th and 6th weeks after implantation.

Keyword:Osseointegration; dental implants; titanium oxide sandblasted; bone mineralization; histological methods.

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