Proplast-coated high-strength magnets as potential denture stabilization devices

This study was designed to determine if a samarium-cobalt magnet could be effectively sealed from the in vivo environment and be physically stablized in bone under similated functional stress. The following conclusions can be made from this study. (1) It is possible to effectively seal a samarium-cobalt magnet from the in vivo environment. Clinical observation, radiographs, and photomicrographs on all samples showed good healing and dense tissue over the surgical sites. The samples showed that connective tissue penetrated the Proplast, and clinically, the magnets appeared to be well stabilized in bone. (2) It follows that if magnets are properly coated and good surgical techniques are used, Proplast can be an effective sealant. Samarium or cobalt appeared in the surrounding tissues only where the coating was faulty. Further studies are being conducted which will cover a 2 year period as opposed to the original 5 month study. It is hoped that with specific tests, we will be able to demonstrate absolute fixation and no migration of the magnets.