ABSTRACT

This chapter provides an overview of the contemporary scientific work related to the use of biomaterials for the repair of bone and joint replacements ranging from a hip joint to a spine. It focuses on the factors concerning dental implants which affect biologic properties of currently available dental implant materials. The use of biomaterials to restore the function of traumatized or degenerated connective tissues and thus improve the quality of life of a patient has become widespread. Bone provides an anchoring point, for most skeletal muscles and ligaments. When the muscles contract, long bones act as levers, with the joints functioning as pivots, to cause body movement. To facilitate implantation, the pins have different tip designs which have been optimized for different types of bone. Screws are the most widely used devices for fixation of bone fragments. Plates are available in a wide variety of shapes and are intended to facilitate fixation of bone fragments.