Electrical stimulation of osteogenesis in pathological osseous defects

Area of Science:

• Bioelectric phenomena
• Periodontal medicine
• Dental research

Background:

• Limited research exists on bioelectric phenomena in dentistry.
• Periodontal osseous defects present a significant clinical challenge.
• Understanding bioelectrical effects on bone regeneration is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of bioelectrical stimulation on pathological osseous defects in the periodontium.
• To investigate the efficacy of constant and oscillating direct current (dc) in the nanoampere range.
• To assess effects on bone regeneration, periosteal and endosteal apposition, and bone density.

Main Methods:

• Designed galvanic (constant dc) and thermocouple (oscillating dc) generators.
• Implanted generators in periodontal osseous defects of Beagle dogs.
• Utilized submucoperiosteal implantation with negative electrodes in defects.
• Conducted clinical, radiographic, and histological evaluations over 45 days.

Main Results:

• No significant clinical or radiographic changes in defect depth observed.
• No significant periosteal osseous apposition stimulated by the currents.
• Both constant and oscillating negative dc currents increased endosteal osseous apposition.
• Histological bone density increased in experimental sites compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Nanoampere range constant or oscillating negative dc currents were ineffective for regenerating periodontal osseous defects.
• These currents did not significantly stimulate periosteal bone growth.
• Both current types enhanced endosteal osseous apposition and bone density.
• The tested devices are suitable for future investigations into bioelectrical stimulation for alveolar bone osteogenesis.