Early histologic response to titanium implants complexed with bovine bone morphogenetic protein.

This study established a method for combining bovine bone morphogenetic protein (bBMP) with titanium and evaluated the early bone formation induced by the bBMP/titanium complex in edentulous dogs. Results showed newly formed bone within the interface bone 2 weeks after implantation and nearly complete osseointegration 4 weeks after implantation. Bone formed with the apical opening of the implant within 1 month. This study indicates that osseointegration can be enhanced by bBMP-bone induction. The apical opening of the implant may provide a site in which osteogenesis can occur with protection from implant stress before and after loading.