Rooted in Bone: The Role of Osseointegration in Dental Implantology

In a society that places a high value on aesthetics, the use of implants for the prosthetic rehabilitation of lost teeth has become increasingly popular among both patients and clinicians. Osseointegration is the biotechnical process behind implants, which has been studied for years due to advancements in understanding its cellular and molecular mechanisms. Researchers are now focusing on factors influencing osseointegration, focusing on even the smallest details. The stability of implants, particularly secondary stability, is influenced by bone formation and integration with surrounding osseous tissues. Factors affecting osseointegration include implant characteristics, bone quantity and quality, and local and systemic host conditions. The timing and protocols for functional loading also play a crucial role. Continuous monitoring of osseointegration status is essential to mitigate challenges and ensure successful implants. This review aims to cover the mechanisms and influencing factors of osseointegration, along with methods for its assessment, and will conclude with a discussion on recent advancements and future directions in dental implantology to improve the osseointegration process. The goal of this review is to inspire further technological developments that enhance osseointegration.