Bone quality, quantity and metabolism in terms of dental implantation.

The present paper provides an introduction to regular bone structure in the face area which is considered a precondition of successful implantation. The specific properties of the jaw bones have to be observed in this context. Bone is the largest calcium storage, forms part of the supporting tissue and displays distinctive plasticity and adaptability. Thus, an adequate, differentiated composition and metabolism are required. The bone matrix consists of organic and inorganic structures. The cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts and osteocytes are responsible for bone formation, resorption and metabolism and, thus, for remodeling processes (formation and resorption) which permanently occur in bone tissue. Periosteum and endosteum form a functional unit with bone tissue itself and exercise protective, nutritive and growth functions.