Experimental ridge augmentation with porous hydroxyapatite implants.

A new hydroxyapatite ceramic implant material for restoration of atrophic edentulous ridges was tested in a canine animal model. The structure of this material is unique, in that it is produced from the skeleton of a coral, and in that it is penetrated by a uniform network of interconnected pores. Results indicate that bone penetrates its structure to a greater degree than had been observed with similar implants constructed of different materials. Implant insertion through a simple surgical technique involving minimal morbidity is a viable method of placement.