HA coatings in implant dentistry: hype, hysteria, or clinical reality?

Hydroxylapatite (HA) coatings have shown promise due to the enhanced integration of osseous tissues to coated implant surfaces, particularly in sites where bone quality or quantity is compromised. This promise has resulted in a dramatic increase in clinical utilization of HA-coated implants. In spite of encouraging clinical findings, the long-term stability of the hydroxylapatite/bone interface has been challenged. Microbiologically the HA-coated implant surface may be more susceptible to the formation of bacterial plaque. Additionally, critical variations exist between implant coatings that may affect long-term survival. Despite such concerns, after eight years of clinical utilization, the hydroxylapatite-coated implant surface has not been shown to be predisposed to increased long-term failure.